While Newcastle United have indulged in the dark arts somewhat this season, it was strange to see Miguel Almiron show his more aggressive side during Thursday night’s win over Brighton.
Usually such a joyful figure, Newcastle star Almiron was involved in an altercation with international teammate Julio Enciso at St James’ Park, with the two compatriots having to be kept apart by teammates.
Though the pair appeared to have made up by the time of the full-time whistle, it was certainly quite the flash point.
So much so that the Brighton forward has seen fit to apologise.
Enciso issues public apology to Almiron after Brighton clash
Taking to social media after the game, Enciso was at pains to say sorry to his international teammate.
“Seeing everything that I’m being mentioned in, first off I want to say that the things that happen on the pitch stay on the pitch, I never want to fight with anyone,” he wrote.
“And especially with Miguel. For those that know me and the way I am know the respect I have for Miguel. Still, I apologized, we apologized and now we’re fine. Miguel is an idol of mine, I adore him a lot and we both work hard to put our country at the top.”
“Today he won and I wish him the best. Thank you brother for all the advice and the chat we had after the game, I learned a lot from you. Bless up idol, thank you brother and sorry again. I know I didn’t leave a good imagine but I would never do anything bad.
“I’m young and I’m learning everything every day. Thank you brother.”
Those moments happy in sport
Though it’s never particularly nice to see those kind of on-field arguments, it would be churlish to suggest its not part of the game.
It was a huge fixture for the club and tempers can flare. The £20m man might have thrilled in front of goal all season but showed another fiery side to his game before playing a wonderful ball through to Callum Wilson for the crucial third goal.
Almiron channeled that energy in the best possible way.
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