Hull City boss Sergej Jakirovic has given his side of events after getting involved in a melee with the Newcastle United bench after the full-time whistle at St James’ Park.
The Tigers lost 2-1 in the North East, with two early goals from Joe Willock and Lewis Hall ultimately being the difference on the day as City were handed their first Premier League defeat of the season.
However, the full-time whistle was met with anger on the touchline from both benches as Jakirovic and a member of the Newcastle coaching team clashed.
It followed a series of fiery moments throughout the contest and Jakirovic could be heard shouting ‘shut up’ to the Newcastle bench at one point, while assistant manager Dean Holden was shown a yellow card. Oli McBurnie also had some confrontational words with the same member of the Magpies staff in the first half.
Jakirovic puts his actions down to that, insisting he was protecting his striker, who he felt had been singled out.
“One member of staff provoked Oli McBurnie and I had to protect him,” the head coach said when asked about the coming together. “Oli McBurnie is an explosive guy and he can get yellow or red card. I had to protect.
“I have my team and I’m always speaking with my players. I have to protect my players and this is my duty. I am there and I will always be there, no matter who is opponent.
“What happened on the pitch, stays on the pitch. Some disagreement but this is normal.”
Newcastle boss Matthias Jaissle was asked for his side of things during his post-match press conference too, with the German accusing the City bench of making comments that were ‘over the line’.
“I cannot say too much but I think there was some comments over the line,” he added. “This is football and I hope they shake hands afterwards and everything is good again.”