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Everton boss Ronald Koeman orders Ashley Williams to cool it after sparking shameful 20-man brawl against Lyon
The Dutch boss says aggression can be a good thing but the Welsh international needed to channel it better
RONALD KOEMAN warned Ashley Williams to cool it after sparking a shameful melee which led to Everton facing Uefa charges.
Defender Williams’ forearm smash on Lyon goalkeeper Anthony Lopes led to the teams brawling near the fans behind Lopes’ goal at Goodison.
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A Toffees fan clutching a toddler even lashed out at the Portuguese stopper.
Everton reacted to the shocking scenes in Thursday’s 2-1 Europa League defeat by banning the supporter — but they still face investigation over “aggressions by supporters against players”.
It looked like the astonishing episode could push under-pressure Goodison boss Koeman over the edge.
The Dutchman insists he still has the support of the club’s board.
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But Koeman admitted Williams must learn to better channel his aggression.
He said: “Ashley played well and was captain on the pitch — but in the brawl he needed to control himself.
“On one hand, I understand frustration and disappointment, because everybody was disappointed.
“A good sign is that you get frustrated and then get more aggression and that’s not bad. But you need to control it. And I understand his personal situation. It was difficult for him after missing out on the World Cup with Wales.
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“He made a mistake which cost them a goal — but I like that mentality because he still showed his face.”
Everton’s defeat to Lyon virtually ended their Europa League hopes and Koeman needs a reaction when Arsenal visit tomorrow — with the Toffees sitting just two points above the drop zone.
He added: “There is support from the board — that’s not changed. Everybody is a little bit worried about the situation.
“Of course the pressure is on. I watch TV and social media. I know what’s going around — that’s football.”
