From the Guardian’s Stuart James.
Sheffield United have dismissed reports suggesting Claude Davis (above) threatened his team-mate Ade Akinbiyi with a cut-throat razor, insisting that the dispute between the two players was a minor one and “the sort which occurs in dressing rooms throughout the land”.
It is understood that Davis, who joined United from Preston for £2.5m in the summer, had just finished shaving when an argument broke out, although the razor had been put away and was not used as a weapon, as had been suggested. Neil Warnock called the players together after learning of the disagreement but will not impose any fines.
“I’ve spoken to the two players involved and, while there were a few words exchanged, it is nothing that needed any sanction,” said the Bramall Lane manager. “They have shaken hands and the matter is over and done with.”
It is believed that the feud started after Akinbiyi ridiculed Davis’s performance at Goodison Park last Saturday when the central defender was sent off in the first half of a match which United lost 2-0. Davis is purported to have responded by making a remark about one of Akinbiyi’s parents, causing the row to escalate. United last night issued a statement in response to the allegations that a “flare-up” had occurred.
A statement from the club confirmed the investigation had been concluded and said: “The two players did have a difference of opinion, the sort which occurs in dressing rooms throughout the land. Contrary to reports, no razors or knives were involved, the pair have shaken hands and the disagreement has been resolved.”