Gary Rowett defends 'unpopular' Harry Winks call and explains lack of disciplinary action | OneFootball

Gary Rowett defended his decision to start Harry Winks, saying football reasons left him little choice, and hinted he might have disciplined the midfielder had he been in charge beyond this season, according to LeicesterMercury.co.uk.

A week earlier, Winks was filmed arguing with spectators outside Fratton Park after City’s defeat to Portsmouth. He was booed before a substitute outing on Tuesday as City were relegated, then jeered with every touch for the first half of Friday’s 1-1 draw with Millwall.

Rowett said Winks was the only available option at the base of midfield, with Jordan James not fully fit and Joe Aribo missing. He had also noted in midweek that Winks should not have reacted at Fratton Park, while adding the footage did not show the full context.

He added that if he were staying long term, certain cultural issues would not occur, and that he would not start disciplining players when he might not be their manager next season. Acting on such matters is trickier in his interim role, he said, and he was speaking generally rather than solely about Winks.

Winks has one year remaining on his City contract, with a clause to extend it by a further year following City’s promotion out of the Championship in 2024.

Source: LeicesterMercury.co.uk