O’Neill: ‘I was unhappy with the penalty’

Martin O’Neill was rightfully unhappy with the penalty that Everton were awarded in yesterday’s draw at the Stadium of Light.

Sunderland took the lead through substitute Jack Colback, scoring his first goal for the club, before Everton were handed a contentious second-half spot-kick.

Leon Osman appeared to have been victim of minimal contact but on second inspection it was clear the midfielder had merely kicked the floor, sending him toppling.

Speaking to BBC Sport, O’Neill said:

‘I was obviously unhappy with the penalty. The players that were heavily involved with it were more upset.’

The Ulsterman continued:

‘[Referee] Howard [Webb] must have thought there was contact there but there was clearly no contact. It’s disappointing because it has a major bearing on the game.

‘I saw him after the game and he was very gracious. He thought our player had clipped their player.’

Sunderland now host league leaders, Manchester City, on New Years Day.