Pompey pair apologise for half-time spat

(Picture: Action Images)

Portsmouth duo Michael Doyle and Christian Burgess have apologised after a dressing room spat between the pair saw them both substituted at half-time during Saturday’s home defeat to Stevenage.

Pompey conducted an internal investigation into what they called a ‘dressing room incident’ after boss Paul Cook confirmed Doyle and Burgess were involved in an altercation.

Cook decided it was serious enough to haul both players off during the interval, and they have since publicly apologised.

In a club statement, centre-back Burgess said: “At half-time on Saturday, Michael and I engaged in a heated discussion that unfortunately escalated to an unacceptable point that we both regret.

“Our desire to win clearly crossed a line and our differences were quickly resolved, even before the end of the game.”

Captain Doyle echoed Burgess’ sentiments, and after admitting he could not ‘undo what had been done’, said: “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.”

As well as issuing apologies, both players are also making a donation to the club’s academy and community scheme, and Portsmouth now say they consider the matter closed as they focus on maintaining their position in League Two‘s play-off places.