Source: Team_Talk
Everton rally round accused Fellaini
Everton have defended Marouane Fellaini following criticism of the midfielder's use of the elbow.[LNB] Fellaini was booked in Everton's Premier League defeat by Newcastle on Saturday after catching James Perch's head with his arm.[LNB]Television analysts claimed the Belgium international was fortunate not to be sent off and later highlighted previous similar incidents involving the 22-year-old.[LNB]Toffees assistant manager Steve Round said: "That might have been a bit of frustration.[LNB]"It's a reactive thing, it was not malicious. He is not that sort of guy.[LNB]"He is a combative player, very physical and wants to take the fight to the opposition. It was just one of those things."[LNB]As he received a yellow card from Andre Marriner, Fellaini is unlikely to face any further action and Round feels a sending off would have been too harsh anyway.[LNB]He added: "A referee may have taken that view but I thought he got it right and a booking sufficed."[LNB]Another controversial challenge in Saturday's game from Everton's Jermaine Beckford led to Newcastle goalkeeper Steve Harper being carried off with a shoulder injury.[LNB]Of that incident, Round said: "I spoke to the (Newcastle) staff afterwards and they were not too critical.[LNB]"It wasn't really a malicious challenge.[LNB]"Steve Harper has gone over the top of the challenge.[LNB]"He [Beckford] deservedly got a booking but it was the way he [Harper] landed that caused the injury.[LNB]"We believe it is not too bad so hopefully 'Harps' will get better soon."
