Sheffield United issued a statement after star striker Oli McBurnie was cleared of stamping on a pitch-invading fan, after claiming he hopped over him to protect his injured foot. The 26-year-old was acquitted of assaulting Nottingham Forest supporter George Brinkley, after the player’s barrister said he had been “like a ballerina” in avoiding contact.
Speaking outside the courtroom, McBurnie told reporters he had been instructed to make no comment on the outcome of the case - but the club later issued a statement. It read: "Sheffield United is pleased to note today's verdict at Nottingham Magistrates' Court with regards to Oliver McBurnie. Oliver, his legal representatives and officials at the club are disappointed that he was forced to stand trial after the traumatic scenes at Nottingham Forest's City Ground on Tuesday, May 17, 2022, when Oliver's team-mate, Billy Sharp, was violently assaulted.
"Blades manager Paul Heckingbottom has spoke openly about the dangers of supporters invading the pitch with the fixture at Nottingham just one of a number of similar high-profile incidents. Additionally, he has written letters to the Football Association, the English Football League, the League Managers' Association and the Professional Footballers' Association with regards to the safety of players in their place of work and is keen for further action in this area."
