The opposing players sorted out their differences and hugged after full-time as the Seagulls went down 4-1 at Newcastle. Merseyside-based referee Robert Jones had earlier found himself in the middle of a Paraguayan disagreement at St James’s Park. Enciso clumsily fouled Almiron during the second half as Albion tried to force an equaliser. Almiron angrily pursued his opponent to make a point. But Enciso was having none of it and rather dismissively pushed Almiron in the chest. Argentina star Alexis Mac Allister looked to intervene and everything was eventually calmed down. Almiron stood out for Newcastle while Enciso also injected some spark for the visitors when he went on as sub. While a minor incident for English viewers, their disagreement made headlines back home.
Julio Enciso said: “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 and especially with Miguel. Those that know me and the way I am know the respect I have for Miguel. Still, I apologised, we apologised 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. I know I didn’t leave a good image but I would never do anything bad. I’m young and I’m learning everything every day.”
