Matteo told to get a trim
UNAI EMERY claims rising star Matteo Guendouzi may need to get his hair cut to stop opponents pulling it during matches.
Manchester United’s Marouane Fellaini, who has cut his own afro, got away with resorting to illegal means to stop his Arsenal counterpart during the 2-2 draw on Wednesday.
Guendouzi said: “There was a hint of jealously, I think. He does not digest, perhaps, being short-haired.”
Emery said: “I think the best thing is for Matteo to cut his hair, and this problem is finished. Like Fellaini!”
Asked whether he had delivered that advice to the 19-year-old Frenchman, Emery added: “No, I respect the players’ hair a lot.”
The incident was clearly seen by referee Andre Marriner, who opted not to show Fellaini a yellow card after blowing for a foul.
Ironically, Fellaini has been the victim of a similar offence before, the Belgian being suspended for his reaction after Leicester defender Robert Huth pulled his hair during a match towards the end of the 2015-16 season.
Huth was banned for three games over the off-the-ball incident. Fellaini was banned for elbowing Huth in retaliation. The incident had not been seen by officials.
Emery fears defender Rob Holding may be out for the rest of the season with a knee injury suffered at United. Holding is being assessed by medics but Emery said: “The first news is not good.”