Sunderland manager David Moyes has claimed that Howard Webb brandinghim a 'nightmare' indicates his passion to win football matches.
The Scotsman's comments come after Howard Web spoke out about the managers who gave him the most grief from the sidelines.
In what was promotion for his new book, Webb singled out Moyes as the manager who was worst for raging about decisions.
But the Black Cats' boss responded in positive fashion, insisting that it was 'part of wanting to win'.
Speaking to theMirror, Moyes went on to say:I think I am a bit more mature now. Everton was a tough place to go for any referee and we made sure they knew about it.
I don't think I am like that anymore but I don't want to lose that. I do realise how difficult the job is.
Moyes also spoke about his time out of the game, where he says that he 'got to know' a number of referees. He admitted that the job they do is very difficult and that managers sometimes make it even harder.
I got to know quite a few of the referees when I was out of the game. I flew back on the plane after the Euros with Martin Atkinson who sent off Jack Rodwell for a tackle on Luis Suarez.
Jermain Defoe believes Sunderland have "gone backwards" under David Moyes. Read here: https://t.co/jumznh7BSQ pic.twitter.com/M716N3t0aq
We sat and talked about it for the first time and it was probably five or six years ago, he said he got it wrong and I was right," he added.
I understand how difficult the job is. We didn't make it easy for them if we could help it at that time. I think the standard of refereeing has moved on."