Carlos Tevez has revealed his shock at the reception he was given by Manchester United fans during the explosive derby at Old Trafford on Sunday and admits 'it was hard to take.'

The 25-year-old was once idolised by the United faithful during a two year stay with the Red Devils in which he helped the club to win back-to-back Premier League titles and lift the UEFA Champions League crown.

But that has all been long forgotten following his decision to turn his back on a five-year deal with Sir Alex Ferguson's men to join arch rivals Manchester City in a £25.5million deal during the summer.

Making his return to the Theatre of Dreams on Sunday in an action packed encounter, the Argentine was subjected to a cacophony of boos from the home support everytime he touched the ball.

Speaking after an epic game in which United prevailed 4-3 thanks to a last-gasp winner from Michael Owen, 'El Apache' admits he was not prepared for the barrage of abuse directed towards him after receiving such a warm welcome from former United colleagues.

"I must admit I did believe I would get a different reception from the United supporters," admitted Tevez to The Daily Mail.

"Initially everything was positive and I was greeted by my former team-mates and United staff without any problems at all."

"But as soon as I entered the field the atmosphere was very different.

"It was hard to take because previously I was always wanted by those people. But I suppose in football situations change."