Norwich City head coach Johannes Hoff Thorup has downplayed concerns of an FA investigation following a heated full-time melee during their 2-1 Championship defeat to Burnley on Sunday.
The incident unfolded as both teams conducted post-match laps of appreciation at Carrow Road, which escalated into a shoving match requiring intervention to separate the squads.
The fracas continued into the tunnel, with Norwich’s Glen Riddersholm, Onel Hernandez, and Grant Hanley seen in a tense exchange with Burnley goalkeeper James Trafford. The heated moment compounded frustrations for City, who are already dealing with Kenny McLean’s four-game ban from a retrospective disciplinary ruling following their loss to QPR.
Thorup’s Reaction to Post-Match Emotions
Despite the chaotic scenes, Thorup expressed confidence that the episode would not draw further action from football authorities, but issued a stern warning to his players to avoid future confrontations.
“There was nothing in it. The maximum a little bit of pushing and emotions. And I think if you want to kill that in football, then, of course, you can do it. It’s also what keeps us thriving in this business, and keeps us coming to stadium every weekend to watch football, because of the emotions,” Thorup said.
The head coach acknowledged the emotional toll of the loss on his players but emphasised the importance of discipline. “Talking to the boys in the dressing room afterwards, there were many emotions, because a lot of the players thought we did well for 60 to 70 per cent of the game, and yet we still leave with no points. It’s something we need to learn to deal with,” Thorup added.
Thorup made it clear that such incidents must not become a recurring theme for his squad. He advised his players to focus on de-escalating situations rather than contributing to further disruptions.“I made it clear that I don’t want to see reactions like that out there. We need to behave whether we win or lose—not that I’m saying we started it. But we must support each other by dragging a team-mate away and ensuring we avoid such things. Otherwise, we just end up with more suspensions, and we can’t afford that.”