JOE GOMEZ was apparently offered the opportunity to report team-mate Raheem Sterling to the police after the pair had an altercation while on England duty.
The bust-up, which occurred the day after the two had squared up in Liverpool’s clash with Manchester City in November, left the defender with marks on his face and neck.
Gomez and Sterling initially came face-to-face when playing for their respective club sides
And according to the Daily Mail, the FA stepped in to give Gomez the option of taking the matter to the police, something he was not prepared to do.
The internationals quashed their feud and Sterling posted a supportive message for Gomez after the 22-year-old was booed at Wembley during England’s Euro 2020 qualifer against Montenegro, for which the Man City forward was dropped by manager Gareth Southgate.
Speaking about the incident, Southgate told Sky Sports Football: “They definitely came close together.
“I think Raheem’s message once Joe had received the adverse reaction at Wembley was a really powerful one. I think that really brought some closure on the whole episode.
“We’re dealing with young men who are going to be emotional at times, and part of the strength of some of players is that edge that they have, I understand that.
“Sometimes you’ve got to guide them through these things, and I think through that adversity we’re stronger as a group for it.
“I think there are situations as a leader that, whatever decision you make you’ll be criticised.
“There are some situations where there isn’t a perfect solution, and you’ll just have to work things together as a group, and time needs to pass.
“I have to make a decision that’s right for the team first and foremost, support – in this instance – both of the players, but there are so many people involved in a situation like that, and everybody is going to have an opinion.
“I think those that have managed or coached before understand the complexities of any situation like that, so the most important thing is the team and the performance of the team.”
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Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
