A man has been charged with assault and entering the field of play after appearing to push Newcastle Utd manager Eddie Howe during the Leeds United football match at Elland Road yesterday (Sat).
The man managed to make his way onto the pitch before heading towards the Newcastle dugout where he confronted Howe before being dragged away by stewards shortly before the end of the game which Leeds drew 2-2.
Afterwards, Howe said the incident should act as a wake-up call for those responsible for the safety of players and staff. Leeds United have said the fan has been banned for life by the club.
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Howe said: "I actually can’t remember whether he pushed me or not, I've got no idea, it's such a strange thing because you're concentrating on the game and you don't expect it to happen. He confronted me, said something that I can't repeat and was then led away.
"I'm OK. Moments like that do make you think about the safety of staff and players is paramount for me at any matches in the Premier League and Football League. We need to be mindful, security is so important.
"I don't know if I had time to be fearful because it was over in a flash but it certainly makes you think 'what if' and I think it is moments like this that should make people look and analyse how we can improve safety for staff and players.
"No one should have to face that, playing a sport we love and trying to entertain the country, no one should feel like their own personal safety is violated. It is something for us to reflect on."
The man has been bailed to appear before magistrates on Friday, July 21. No details of his name, age or address have been provided by West Yorkshire Police.
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