InTheNews.co.uk
Breaking News:
Your source for news

News Story

 05 July 2008 04:17 BST

Merseyside police launch probe into fan abuse during derby

Tuesday, 01 Apr 2008 18:30
Liverpool supporters, as well as Everton fans, allegedly hurled abuse at players on both sides
The police have revealed they are to launch an investigation into events at Sunday's Merseyside derby between fans and players.

A number of claims have been made over the abuse of players on both teams by supporters during Liverpool's 1-0 win over Everton at Anfield.

Toffees captain Phil Neville was allegedly punched in the back when he went to take a throw-in in front of home fans, while a number of other players also claim to have been spat on.

Opposition skipper Steven Gerrard was also allegedly subjected to chants about his young family from the away section of the crowd.

A spokesperson for Merseyside police said both clubs would be consulted before any decision is made to take action.

After the match, Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez claimed the Everton supporters showed "a lack of respect" towards their hosts during the game.

But Everton have issued an angry response to the comments, claiming "respect is a two-way street".

Everton's head of public relations Ian Ross said: "Whilst we would never condone the singling out of individual players for vitriolic insults, it is a shame that Mr Benitez chose to ignore the actions of his own club's supporters.

"Not only was Joleon Lescott subjected to an afternoon-long barrage of quite disgusting and quite audible abuse, Phil Neville was seemingly spat at several times and was also punched in the back by a supporter as he took a throw-in.

"We have asked Merseyside police and our safety officer to look into the matter."End of story


More headline news... 

Also In The News 

© 2008 Advertise | Privacy | Terms of Use