Kylian Mbappe and Neymar row rejected by Thomas Tuchel as PSG boss bids to ease tension

The German coach did not attend the Brazilian’s birthday part on Sunday

Neymar and Mbappe warm up for PSG against Montpellier (AFP)

Thomas Tuchel has played down reports of a row between himself and star players Kylian Mbappe and Neymar.

Mbappe reacted angrily to being substituted in the 5-0 Ligue 1 victory over Montpellier on Saturday.

While fellow Paris Saint-Germain superstar Neymar held a birthday party on Sunday, which Tuchel opted against attending.

The Brazilian picked up a rib injury in Saturday's match, with the timing of Neymar’s party at Yoyo club in Paris causing controversy after PSG announced he would be out of next Tuesday’s match.

But the German coach insists his team selection for the next match is not influenced by Neymar’s party.

“Is it the best way to prepare for a match? No, clearly not,” Tuchel said. “Is it the worst thing in the world? No.

“We must be clear. I decided to not attend Neymar’s birthday. That was my choice.

“It was not against him – it was the best thing to not be there.”

Tuchel also rejected any speculation of a rift with his star talents, despite both players’ contracts expiring in two years.

Neymar and Mbappe warm up for PSG against Montpellier (AFP)

Liverpool have admired Mbappe for a long time and count the Frenchman among their potential targets this summer.

“There is no crisis,” Tuchel added. “Personally, I am not annoyed.

“I am a coach and Kylian and Neymar are both top players. You have to handle players as part of a strong team, not a divided one.

“I am not angry with either of them. There are times when a relationship between the player and coach is easier, but that is normal.”