Newcastle`s assistant manager, Jason Tindall, has stated he will continue to engage with opposition managers, as the saga surrounding his `Wham! hoodie` continues ahead of today`s game against Aston Villa.
Tindall, who is currently leading Newcastle while head coach Eddie Howe recovers from illness, was at the center of a tunnel altercation during Aston Villa`s 3-0 defeat at Newcastle on Boxing Day.
Previously, Emery refused to shake hands with Tindall, who then gestured to silence the Spaniard and wore a Wham! top to celebrate their victory.
Ahead of today’s match, Tindall commented, “In the heat of the moment, your only focus is winning.”
“The hoodie incident gained a lot of attention, but you won’t see me wearing one at Villa Park today.”
Tindall is known as `Mad Dog` and has a reputation for provoking strong reactions from opposing managers.
Newcastle’s second in command has had heated exchanges with prominent managers like Jurgen Klopp and Mikel Arteta.
With Eddie Howe absent due to illness, Tindall has taken the reins, guiding the Magpies to significant wins against Manchester United and Crystal Palace.
However, after the controversy last Christmas, the away game against Aston Villa is expected to be a significant test of the 47-year-old assistant’s composure.
The rivalry isn`t just between the fans; tensions also exist between the coaching staff of both teams.
Now, Tindall is leading Newcastle for this latest encounter with Villa, which is likely to intensify the already strained atmosphere, just months after a major clash between the two benches.
Emery was angered by Jhon Duran`s sending off and protested to the fourth official. He then became even more upset when Tindall appeared to provoke him by putting his finger to his lips.
A large 20-person brawl erupted at halftime, with Tindall heavily involved as Villa`s analyst Victor Manas confronted him, accusing him of disrespect.
During the chaos, Villa’s director of football operations, Damian Vidagany, fell, and both Tindall and Manas were shown red cards by referee Anthony Taylor.
Both clubs faced fines after admitting to FA misconduct charges. Tindall, who reappeared after the game wearing a Wham! hoodie, denied any wrongdoing.
Newcastle stated they couldn`t provide CCTV footage of the incident.
Aston Villa were clearly bothered, mentioning in their statement to the FA: “Mr. Tindall was seen in the tunnel in the 85th minute wearing a Wham! jumper and joking with Newcastle United staff.”
Tindall and Emery have a history; Emery previously declined to shake Tindall’s hand during Newcastle’s last visit to Villa Park, a game Newcastle won 3-1.
When asked if he would shake Emery’s hand this time, Tindall responded, “I will definitely offer my hand, and if he wishes to shake it, I’m sure he will.”
“There was considerable discussion before the previous game about the hoodie.”
“It was planned; a fan asked me to wear it before the game, and I agreed if we won.”
“If people who don’t know me want to comment, that’s their prerogative.”
When Emery was asked about Tindall on Friday, he said, “I have no issue. We are all highly competitive at times. If we maintain respect, there’s no problem. My focus is on the game, and I wish Eddie well.
“I hope he recovers quickly and is in good health.”
The animosity between fans dates back to May 2009 when Villa fans displayed banners mocking Newcastle`s relegation to the Championship.
Now, Newcastle boasts recent success, having won their first major trophy in 70 years with last month’s Carabao Cup victory.
They are currently positioned third in the league, following five consecutive Premier League wins.
Newcastle has also won five of their last six encounters with Aston Villa.
Emery added, “They are currently performing at their peak. They are confident and strong.”
“There are still 18 points up for grabs, and they are ahead of us by five points – which is significant!”
