Evra was held back by team-mates (Getty)

Patrice Evra faces serious sanctions after appearing to kung-fu kick a fan in the head prior to a Europa League match.

The 36-year-old defender, now playing for Marseille, was sent off because of the incident which happened prior to his side’s game with Vitoria in Portugal on Thursday.

Evra was reportedly targeted with chants by the travelling Marseille fans – who are unhappy with his performances this season – as he warmed up for the match.

As he went to leave the pitch and return to the dressing room he, and some of his team-mates, became embroiled in a heated exchange with the travelling supporters who had made their way down to the hoardings by the side of the pitch.

Things then turned violent, with Evra kicking out at one of his side’s own supporters.

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Despite the game having not even started and with Evra among the substitutes, he was given a red card by the referee. It meant Marseille saw their number of subs reduced to six.

Eric Cantona famously kicked a fan at Selhurst Park (Getty)

The former Manchester United defender will face an automatic three-match ban for his sending off but it is almost certain to be extended due to the severity of the situation.

When former Manchester United striker Eric Cantona kicked out at a Crystal Palace supporter he was banned from the game for eight months.

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