Djalminha in headbutt storm

Djalminha has had a string of bust-ups with Irureta over his failure to be given a regular starting berth.

It would seem that the differences came to the fore again on Wednesday, with a squabble during a training match prompting Irureta to order the player to the changing rooms.

Instead of walking away, Djalminha turned and clashed heads with his coach before being pulled away by team-mates.

After a cooling off period, Djalminha met the waiting media and attempted to play down the incident.

"These things have happened here before, not with me, but there is always talk about it," said the Brazilian.

"I don't know why people are making such a big deal about it.

"What happened is between us, it's an internal thing. It was a heated moment, but it's of little importance. What's important is the match against Betis."

Irureta was also remarkably calm when asked to give his opinion, commenting: "It's the result of end of season nerves. It happens with a lot of teams."

Despite the incident being played down, it is sure to cast a doubt over Djalminha`s future at the Riazor.

When asked about Djalminha`s future in light of the clash, Irureta added: "The only thing I want to say is that authority and discipline will prevail. It must be the club that decides what happens next."

Djalminha, who joined Depor in 1997 and helped them lift the title in 2000, is certain to attempt to put the incident behind him as he prepares for the World Cup finals with Brazil.