NYARKO QUITS AFTER ABUSE

A supporter ran on to the pitch at Highbury, took off his shirt and offered to swap it with the Ghanaian international.

The 28-year-old then pleaded with the bench to be substituted, and when he was eventually replaced by Idan Tal after 70minutes, he stormed down the tunnel and announced his decision after the game.

"I'm finished with football," said Nyarko. "This man has done the same thing before."

"He came and offered me a black T-shirt for my blue one, so I have decided I am quitting football - I can't live my life like this.

"I can live without football and that is what I am going to do.

"I came to this club when I would have been better off joining another one. But I have had no problems with anybody at Everton and I have full respect for everyone.

"I have been happy with the way I have played and I don't upset anybody, but this is too much."

Nyarko moved to Goodison Park from French club Lens for £4.5 million and boss Walter Smith was clearly angered by his decision.

"You expect players to have a certain amount of mental strength when they are criticised," said Smith.

"But I've never known something like this to happen before and I presume no other manager has either.

"It is obviously not a good example to set. You'll have to give me some time to think about whether he will be playing for us in our next game.

"About five seconds should do it."