Portsmouth: Michael Doyle and Christian Burgess apologise for furious dressing room bust-up during defeat to Stevenage
Pompey duo also make donation to charity are gettting involved in altercation which left Burgess needing stitches
Sponsored by
PORTSMOUTH duo Michael Doyle and Christian Burgess have issued grovelling public apologies for their furious dressing room bust-up.
Pompey defender Burgess was left needing stitches after a half-time altercation which led to both players being subbed before at the break in their 2-1 defeat to Stevenage.
The duo were seen arguing as they left the pitch with the score 0-0 at the end of the first half at Fratton Park.
Boss Paul Cook hit out at the players after the game, claiming that they had caused the defeat.
Cook admitted: "There has been an incident.
"I'm not going to insult Pompey fans' intelligence.
"There was obviously a problem at half-time to make two subs like that.
"It affected the changes we can make. That's the way it is.
"Something has gone on at half time so we had to make those changes."
Today both players have issued statements as well as making donations to charity.
Irish midfielder Doyle said: "I have made no secret about the fact that I joined Portsmouth for one reason – to gain success and help the club achieve its on-field ambitions. This is a burning desire within me that is all-consuming.
Related stories
"To wear the captain’s armband is the ultimate honour. However, on Saturday my desire to win unfortunately spilled over into a half-time incident for which I would like to apologise to my team-mates, management, those who work so hard behind the scenes and, most importantly, our fantastic supporters.
"I cannot undo what has been done, but as we embark upon an important run of fixtures, I can assure everyone that this incident will only serve to strengthen my – and the team’s – resolve to deliver on the pitch. I am, and will continue to be, totally committed to this football club.
"Having spoken with the manager and CEO, I have asked to make a donation to the club’s academy and Pompey in the Community."
Former Boro and Peterborough centre-back Burgess added: "At half-time on Saturday, Michael and I engaged in a heated discussion that unfortunately escalated to an unacceptable point that we both regret.
"Michael and I are so desperate to succeed at this football club and our desire to win clearly crossed a line.
"Our differences were quickly resolved, even before the end of Saturday’s game, and I sincerely apologise to our supporters and everyone associated with the club for this incident.
"After speaking with the manager and the CEO, I have agreed to make a donation to our academy and Pompey in the Community."