06 Nov “Disappointing” that Merrick non-handshake a talking point: Muscat

Melbourne Victory coach Kevin Muscat has laughed off any suggestions he refused to shake Ernie Merrick’s hand after their 1-0 win over Newcastle last weekend.

Merrick called Muscat’s behaviour “petty” on SEN Breakfast earlier this week, but Muscat can’t believe the situation is still being spoken about.

MERRICK BAFFLED BY MUSCAT’S “PETTY” BEHAVIOUR

“I can’t believe we are actually talking about it,” Muscat told SEN Breakfast.

“It was a very good game of football from our perspective and unfortunately it’s been made about Ernie and I again, like it was last season before the Grand Final.

“I’ve been involved in six grand finals in 13 years and prior to the Grand Final there is a joint press conference and last year was the first time it didn’t happen because Ernie refused.

“Again it was an opportunity to make it about us and we are here again. It is disappointing. I can’t believe we are talking about something so insignificant.”

Muscat also confirmed he hasn’t brushed off other coaches in the past, like Merrick said he had.

“If Ernie wants to talk about that, Ernie can talk about it but it’s not the case,” Muscat said.

The Victory battle Central Coast this Sunday night at AAMI Park.

Listen to Kevin Muscat’s chat with Garry Lyon and Tim Watson on SEN Breakfast in the player below