Sergio Aguero has been saluted by fans across football after standing up for a Manchester City fan at Bournemouth on Saturday — even supporters of their arch-rivals Manchester United.
The Football Supporters’ Federation have accused police and stewards of using “disproportionate force” following Raheem Sterling’s 97th-minute winner.
Sub Aguero was initially the subject of a complaint of assault by a steward. But this was withdrawn — and called a “misunderstanding” in a Bournemouth statement — after the review of video evidence.
The Argentinean striker can be seen to be remonstrating with a steward and police over the treatment of a fan held down on the pitch.
Aguero has been praised on social media by fans from all teams for trying to protect the supporter.
And FFSF case worker Amanda Jacks said: “We welcome such a high-profile player showing such concern in this situation and hope he has highlighted the issue. The intervention of Sergio Aguero was telling – clearly he didn’t feel threatened by his supporters and was disturbed by the response to the celebrations.
“Also telling is the widespread condemnation of fans from many clubs as to the policing and stewarding, including from Manchester United fans!
“From the extensive footage I’ve seen, my view is that rather than safely contain exuberance and celebration, stewards and police acted instead to curtail what they perceived to be a public order problem with a disproportionate use of force.
“Ironically, this may well have compromised safety.”
Bournemouth will speak to their stewards and City are confident the Cherries will deal with the matter appropriately.
Dorset Police said two fans had been arrested for encroaching on the pitch.
A statement said: “This investigation is in the very early stages and if any further actions need to be taken, this will happen in due course.”