Neymar the diving king?! Ex-referee reveals how he used to ignore Brazilian's 'legendary' theatrics

Neymar has entertained millions of fans all over the world during spells with Barcelona, PSG and the Brazil national team. The forward's skill and goalscoring ability have never been in question but he's also come under fire for his theatrics over the years. Neymar acquired a reputation for diving during his time in Europe and in World Cups with Brazil, and former Champions League referee Felix Brych has admitted he had to learn how to handle the superstar.

Brych was asked which player produced the best dives in football and told Focus: "Well, it's been difficult for the diving kings because of the video referee. But before that, of course, I knew my stuff. Neymar was practically legendary, and certainly not without reason. The more his face contorted in pain, the more calmly I let the game play out. A player in severe pain immediately falls to the ground and doesn't roll around the field forever."

Neymar has never been shy in hitting back at suggestions of diving and has said his critics will "never understand" his theatrics. The forward has previously claimed his dribbling ability has made him a target for tough treatment and has also highlighted his injury record as evidence of the harsh tackles he has had to face on the pitch.

Neymar is currently back in Brazil with boyhood club Santos but is currently embroiled in a relegation scrap in the Brazilian Serie A.