Dwight McNeil's partner, Megan Sharpley, has accused Crystal Palace of 'toying with his mental health' after the winger's proposed £20 million move to Selhurst Park collapsed on deadline day. The 26-year-old Everton star was left 'in the dark' following the failed transfer, which saw Palace submit a deal sheet but fail to complete the necessary paperwork before the deadline.
Sharpley launched a scathing attack on the Eagles via Instagram, claiming McNeil was promised a move and prepared to relocate his life, only to be left with 'radio silence' and 'no explanation'. She wrote: 'To have something promised to you, you have been dragged along an emotional rollercoaster... For it to be torn away from you at the last second, with absolutely no communication, has hurt more than I can say.'
The collapse of the deal has been linked to complications with Jean-Philippe Mateta's failed move to AC Milan, as well as a reported increase in McNeil's price from an initial £10 million to around £20 million with clauses. Crystal Palace have expressed sympathy for McNeil's situation, suggesting issues arose over the payment structure.
Sharpley questioned the football industry's attitude towards mental health, stating: 'We live in a world where everyone is aware how big of a problem mental health is. So in football, why do we find it acceptable, because these young men are on a lot of money, that it's okay to mess and toy with their mental health and that's just 'part of the job'?'
McNeil, who has faced personal hardships in the past, remains an Everton player. Sharpley expressed confidence that he will 'bounce back' from the setback, but called for better protection of players' wellbeing in the future.
