Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe has given his take after appearing to be shoved by a fan during their 2-2 draw with Leeds United at Elland Road. The coach was stood in his dugout in stoppage time when he was confronted by an angry man, who had left his seat and entered the technical area.
The fan appeared to push Howe in the chest, before being captured by stewards and escorted down the touchline to the corner of the ground. The moment came shortly after Junior Firpo was shown a red card for a foul on Anthony Gordon on the edge of the Whites area.
Recounting the incident in his post-match press conference, Howe said: “Do you know what, I actually can't remember whether he pushed me or not. I’ve got no idea.
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“It was just such a strange thing because you're concentrating on the game, it’s not something you expect to happen. I think he confronted me, he said something that I can't repeat and then he's led away. I think that's what happened, but someone might tell me different.
“I’m okay. I think moments like that do make you think, the safety of staff players is paramount for me in the Premier League, any matches, in the Football League. We need to be mindful. I think security is so important."
He added: “I don't know if I time to be fearful, to be honest. It was over in a flash, but certainly it makes you makes you think what ifs. I think it's moments like this that that should hopefully make people think and analyse things and see how we can improve safety for staff and players.
“Those types of situations, no one should have to face that, playing sport they love and trying to entertain the country. No one should have to feel their own personal safety is violated. So it's certainly something for us to reflect on.
“I’m glad someone was there, I wouldn't have fancy my chances to be honest. But no, I can't read. I didn't really see the reaction of my staff because it was just over in a blink of an eye and then back to the game just trying to make sure we do our best for the remainder of the match.”
Leeds United have released a statement on the issue: "Leeds United can confirm that following an incident at our Premier League match against Newcastle United today an arrest has been made, and a lifetime ban has also been issued."
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