The Premier League says it is “concerned about fan behaviour” ahead of this weekend’s final round of fixtures after a spate of worrying incidents, but blamed “reckless actions” on a “small minority of fans”.
A number of midweek matches across the football league pyramid have been marred by violence, culminating at Goodison Park last night, where Crystal Palace boss Patrick Vieira kicked out at an Everton fan after being abused during a pitch invasion.
On Tuesday, Sheffield United striker Billy Sharp was charged and head-butted by a Nottingham Forest fan following a pitch invasion at the end of the two sides’ Championship Play-Off semi-final, with the supporter subsequently jailed for 24 weeks, while Blades striker Oli McBurnie is under investigation by the FA over an altercation with a fan.
There were also incidents of violence by pitch invaders against players at both League Two semi-finals, prompting the EFL to threaten partial stadium closures for clubs as punishment for clubs failing to control crowds next season.
On Friday, Newcastle boss Eddie Howe admitted he was concerned for the safety of both sets of staff and players ahead of his team’s trip to Turf Moor on Sunday, where Burnley must match Leeds’ result at Brentford to secure their Premier League status for next season.
Brentford, meanwhile, are preparing their largest ever police operation amid fears of violence perpetrated by travelling Leeds supporters.
A Premier League spokesperson said: “The safety of all those involved on a matchday is our priority. Ahead of the Premier League’s final round of matches on Sunday, guidance regarding dealing with pitch incursions has been re-issued to clubs as a reminder of protocols.
“The issue will also be part of all pre-match safety briefings and operational meetings. The Premier League will continue to provide help and support for the home club in their running of a matchday and clubs will have all necessary procedures in place to ensure the players, staff, match officials and fans are protected.
“The Premier League is concerned about fan behaviour at grounds but recognises that reckless actions are carried out by a small minority of fans and the majority of supporters attend and watch matches in a safe and respectful way.
“The Premier League has encouraged clubs to remind supporters that it is illegal for them to enter the pitch at any time and may result in a criminal record and stadium bans. We will continue to discuss and address the ongoing issue of fan behaviour with The FA, EFL and other football partners ahead of the start of next season to ensure matches are safe environments for all.”
