Everton: 'Positive' development emerges after Sean Dyche 'slap' controversy

Despite the controversial incident between Sean Dyche and his Everton squad during their training camp in Portugal, the trip is thought to have been "positive" overall, according to the Liverpool Echo.

The newspaper shared via its website on 16 March that the training camp is likely to have provided a psychological break for the players, who have had plenty to deal with this season.

This comes shortly after the Daily Mail reported that an altercation had taken place between Dyche and Nathan Patterson after the boss is reported to have aimed what the Echo dubbed a "playful slap" at his player, which ended with James Tarkowski playing peacemaker.

Everton could benefit from Sean Dyche Portugal controversy

Dyche later apologised to Patterson after the incident was cleared up, and it is said that the break has provided the players with a chance to get away from the constant issues and rumours surrounding the club this season.

Images were shared across social media of the players smiling and enjoying their training sessions, as they put the incident behind them and allowed the focus to return to training.

Not only will the break in Portugal have provided some respite, but it is entirely possible that the altercation itself may have been an outlet for building frustrations and stresses to be released - and the players can now get back to focusing on their games.

Given the constant rumours surrounding points deductions, takeover news and a tight relegation fight, Everton have had a mentally draining season, and with the players having released their frustrations, it could be a positive overall.

In other Everton news, an agent has revealed January transfer discussions at Goodison.

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