Neymar hits back after being 'unfairly offended' in heated clash with fan during Santos defeat

Neymar's return to Santos has not gone completely to plan, with defeat last time out dropping the team into the relegation zone. The match also saw Neymar exchange words in a heated clash with a supporter after the final whistle. Neymar has now taken to social media to explain the situation and reveal why he was so frustrated.

He posted on Instagram: "In the heat of emotion, it’s hard to control your feelings when you’ve been unfairly offended and I’ll never argue with a fan when he’s demanding me on the pitch. He has the right to say whether I’ve played badly or not, and he has the right to boo. What he can’t do is offend me, the way he offended me. (Unfortunately, at the time I only heard him talking, the game was stopped). Saying that I’m a mercenary with my father, talking about my family/friends. I’m sorry but it’s hard to control. I came to Santos to try and help the club in the best way possible, on and off the pitch. And the day the fans think I can’t help anymore or that I’m damaging the club in any way, I’ll be the first to pick up my things and leave. Santos football club is one of my greatest passions and as long as I have the strength, I will do my best for this club. I will run, shout, and even fight if possible to get Santos where it deserves to be."

Neymar returned to Santos after a nightmare spell in the Saudi Pro League with Al-Hilal. The forward has scored four goals and contributed three assists in 15 matches for Santos but has only tasted victory seven times. This is not the first time his frustrations have boiled over since returning to Brazil. He also snapped at a reporter after a recent defeat to Mirassol.

Santos and Neymar are due back in action on Saturday against bottom side Sport in Brazilian Serie A.