Everton ban fan who carried child into fight

Still images taken from video show the Everton fan with a young child in his arms running towards the fight and lashing out at the Lyon players. Picture: PA

Alistair Tweedale

Everton banned a supporter for life after a shocking incident at Goodison Park, which has also sparked a police investigation. The fan, seen in footage carrying a child, approached the pitch and appeared to aim a punch at Lyon goalkeeper Anthony Lopes.

A mass brawl had boiled over near the touchline in front of the Gwladys Street End stand during Everton's Europa League defeat to Lyon on Thursday.

The brawl moved towards the advertising hoardings behind the Lyon goal and fans were seen to shout and gesture at the players.

One fan, holding a toddler in his arms, stormed towards the mass of players and appeared to swing an arm at Lopes, which only added to the Lyon players' angry reaction.

Merseyside Police said in a statement: "Detectives will be reviewing footage and speaking to witnesses to establish what, if any, offences have been committed."

Everton also released a statement confirming that they have decided to ban the fan for life.

"We have identified one individual whom action will now be taken against," said the statement. "This will include a ban from attending future Everton fixtures and the club registering a formal complaint with Merseyside Police."