Sean Dyche has dismissed suggestions that Leeds United and Everton’s on-field bust-up last weekend was malicious. Shortly before half-time, Tyler Adams clashed with Dwight McNeil after the Whites midfielder endured a fierce challenge.
The two players came head-to-head - provoking players from both sides to get involved as tensions spilled over at Goodison Park. Referee Andrew Madley dished out four cards in total, with Weston McKennie and Abdoulaye Doucoure also receiving a caution.
Leeds and Everton were fined by the Football Association on Thursday, having until February 27 to respond. An FA statement read: “Everton and Leeds United have both been charged for a mass confrontation that took place during their Premier League fixture on Saturday 18 February 2023.”
Read more: Javi Gracia tasked with unlocking Leeds United asset following Victor Orta transfer gamble
Ahead of the Toffees’ clash against Aston Villa, manager Dyche has downplayed talk of the dispute. While accepting the charge, the 51-year-old insisted the incident boiled down to passion and there is no bad blood towards Leeds.
“Things get blown up nowadays and they have to be that's fine,” Dyche said. “I've got no problem with that. But nobody was sent off. There was nothing too malicious. It's just one of those things, in a moment of a game where people get involved. I don't want to see it all the time, but it happens.
“It just happens that it's been (fiery) in a couple of recent games. It's an odd one, isn’t it? You can't ask for passion and then not accept it when it comes. Passion can't just be lovely.
“Sometimes it is aggressive or it's a moment that sets something off. But I don't think there's anything too malicious. I understand why the fines have to be in place, no problem with that, but there was nothing really too nasty. No red cards and nothing too over the top.”
READ NEXT:
Leeds United faithful 'get behind' Javi Gracia as verdict delivered on new head coach
Promotions, titles, and Valencia 'betrayal' - Javi Gracia route to becoming Leeds United head coach
How Leeds United's line-up could evolve under new head coach Javi Gracia
Leeds United U21s ratings as Greenwood and Aaronson stand out in hard-fought Aston Villa win
Georginio Rutter and Brenden Aaronson among Leeds United players Javi Gracia can galvanise
