Everton manager Sean Dyche says there was 'nothing' in an altercation between himself and defender Nathan Patterson.
Dyche hit Patterson, 22, with a "playful slap" during a warm weather training camp earlier this month, resulting in a heated row.
"I tapped him on the head like an older brother would and he didn't get the joke. It's really that simple," said Dyche, 52.Scotland international Patterson has played 25 times for Everton this season but his last appearance came in January. The incident reportedly occurred during the Toffees trip to Portugal prior to the international break with defender James Tarkowski having to step in.Premier League latest news - Tonali betting chargeThe Football Association charges Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali with misconduct in relation to alleged breaches of the governing body's betting rules.We've launched three separate channels - BBC Sport, BBC Football and BBC Cricket - to give you another way to stay up to date.
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Nathan Patterson 'embarrassed' as Sean Dyche slap enrages Everton starsThe Toffees were in the Algarve for a training camp during a break in the English Premier League
Read more »
Sean Dyche 'slaps' his own player to cause uproar at Everton team dinnerA bold move to say the least from Dyche...
Read more »
Sean Dyche ‘sparks row with Everton players’ after playful slap backfired during Portugal training camp...Football finance expert Stefan Borson speculates on what Everton and Nottingham Forest’s fate could be as potential points deductions loom
Read more »
Sean Dyche in no doubts about what he's searching for during Everton breakThe Blues boss was exasperated at his side's failure to take more chances heading into this three week break. He has another fortnight to find a solution and everyone he needs is available to him
Read more »
Sean Dyche calls on advice of 'soft psychologist' to solve big Everton problemThe Blues boss explained he is trying to encourage Everton's players to be more instinctive in front of goal
Read more »
Sean Dyche lifts lid on why he's not used Everton academy as challenge laid bareSean Dyche has provided opportunities to Jarrad Branthwaite and Lewis Dobbin but his honest answer when asked why he had not turned to youth during his times of need may spark concern among Everton supporters
Read more »