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News
Duncan Ferguson explains Moise Kean sub and plans to meet with the Everton striker
Everton caretaker manager Duncan Ferguson has defended his decision to substitute Moise Kean, .
Ferguson controversially axed Kean towards the end of the 1-1 draw with Manchester United. Kean had only been on the pitch for 19 minutes as a substitute but he was replaced by Oumar Niasse for the final few minutes.
Clearly upset by the decision, Kean took a slow walk off the pitch. Ferguson did not acknowledge the Italy striker as he got to the sidelines and he walked down the touchline and straight down the tunnel.
Ferguson on Kean
But Ferguson has explained his decision, saying that Kean struggled to adapt to the pace of the game. He decided to go for more experience in the closing stages.
Ferguson said (): “He struggled to get up to the speed of the game. I asked him to go centre-forward, then asked him to change to the right-hand side, which is unfair on him. That’s when I said I’m going to put on a guy who can handle it a bit better.
“I think it’s understandable if you’re a sub and getting subbed off. I can see why he’s upset. But it’s for the good of the team. I’ll speak to him next time I see him, I’ll mention it. I’ve been there as a player myself, I’ve been subbed on and subbed off myself. He’ll be fine. He’ll come again, he’s only 19.”
TBR’s view
This seems like it could be a costly mistake from Ferguson. Kean is already unsettled at Everton and this substitution was so humiliating for a 19-year-old.
Ferguson should have acknowledged him at the side of the pitch and explained his decision. Now, he has a difficult discussion with the teenager, who might be looking for a January exit.