Boris Johnson's spokesman has criticised Jurgen Klopp as he defended Liverpool fans for booing the national anthem ahead of the FA Cup final.
Fans could be heard booing at Wembley as Prince William, president of the Football Association, was introduced during the pre-match BBC television coverage.
Boos were also heard during 'God Save The Queen' and a rendition of the Christian hymn Abide With Me.
Read more: Why Liverpool fans boo the national anthem
Read more: Richard Madeley defends Liverpool fans who booed national anthem
Reds' fans have been well known for booing God Save the Queen at footballing events since the 1980s.
Many cite the Conservative government's 'managed decline' of the city, which was followed by the failings of the government following the Hillsborough disaster as the cause for the boos.
While in recent years, the people of Merseyside feel they continue to be let down by the state and believe the foodbanks outside Anfield and Goodison is evidence of widening inequalities.
The frosty relationship between city and country also translates to the English national team, with many Liverpudlians not supporting England during major tournaments like the Euros or the World Cup.
A flag regularly spotted at Anfield reads ‘scouse not English’ and is seen on display at most games.
Asked about the incident at the weekend, Liverpool manager Jürgen Klopp said: "I know our people wouldn't do it unless there's a reason for it."
But today, the Prime Minister's spokesman rebuked Klopp - saying it was never acceptable to boo the anthem.
The Number 10 spokesman said it was a "great shame" a "small minority" of fans chose to boo the anthem at Wembley.
