Everton defend Fellaini over use of elbow

Everton have defended Marouane Fellaini following criticism of the midfielder's use of the elbow.

Fellaini was booked in Everton's Barclays Premier League defeat by Newcastle on Saturday after catching James Perch's head with his arm.

Television analysts claimed the Belgium international was fortunate not to be sent off and later highlighted previous similar incidents involving the 22-year-old.

Toffees assistant manager Steve Round said today: "That might have been a bit of frustration.

"It's a reactive thing, it was not malicious. He is not that sort of guy.

"He is a combative player, very physical and wants to take the fight to the opposition. It was just one of those things."

As he received a yellow card from Andre Marriner, Fellaini is unlikely to face any further action and Round feels a sending off would have been too harsh anyway.

He added: "A referee may have taken that view but I thought he got it right and a booking sufficed."

Another controversial challenge in Saturday's game from Everton's Jermaine Beckford led to Newcastle goalkeeper Steve Harper being carried off with a shoulder injury.

Of that incident, Round said: "I spoke to the (Newcastle) staff afterwards and they were not too critical.

"It wasn't really a malicious challenge.

"Steve Harper has gone over the top of the challenge.

"He [Beckford] deservedly got a booking but it was the way he [Harper] landed that caused the injury.

"We believe it is not too bad so hopefully 'Harps' will get better soon."