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Everton charged by UEFA after Lyon's Anthony Lopes says he was hit by fan

Ashley Williams (No 5) clashes with Lyon players after a challenge on Anthony Lopes (in orange)
Image: Ashley Williams was at the centre of a brawl during the second half of Everton's clash with Lyon, with Anthony Lopes (L) saying he was struck by a fan

UEFA has charged Everton over the behaviour of their supporters during their 2-1 Europa League defeat to Lyon on Thursday.

Merseyside Police have also confirmed they are investigating a pitchside incident at Goodison Park after Lyon goalkeeper Anthony Lopes said he was hit by a supporter.

The fan, who looked to be carrying a young child, appeared to lash out at Lopes during a brawl between both sets of players that occurred right in front of the home support at the Howard Kendall Gwladys Street End.

Everton have already said the fan has been identified and will be banned from attending their matches in the future. Sky Sports News understands the likelihood is that Everton will impose a lifetime ban.

Their case will be dealt with by the UEFA Control, Ethics and Disciplinary Body on November 16.

Everton captain Ashley Williams had sparked the confrontation after pushing Lopes, with members of both sides' backroom team entering the field of play in an attempt to restore order.

A UEFA statement read: "Disciplinary proceedings have been opened following the UEFA Europa League group stage match between Everton FC and Olympique Lyonnais (1-2), played on October 19 in England.

Also See:

"Charges against Everton FC: Aggressions by supporters against players - Art. 16 (2) (H) of the Disciplinary Regulations

"This case will be dealt with by the UEFA Control, Ethics and Disciplinary Body on November 16."

A further fan was pictured being guided away by a steward after getting over the pitchside barrier and Merseyside Police say an investigation is already underway.

LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - OCTOBER 19:  Ashley Williams of Everton (R) is restrained as he clashes with Lyon players after a challenge on Anthony Lopes of Lyon d
Image: Williams (R) was led away by Everton's goalkeeping coach Patrick Lodewijks

A statement from Merseyside Police read: "Merseyside Police can confirm officers are investigating following a disturbance on the pitch during a football match between Everton and Lyon at Goodison Park last night, Thursday 19th October.

"Detectives will be reviewing footage and speaking to witnesses to establish what, if any, offences have been committed.

"Anyone with information which could assist the investigation is asked to contact Merseyside Police on 0151 777 4065 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."

An Everton statement read: "Club officials have reviewed the footage of an incident that occurred in the 64th minute of the game against Olympique Lyonnaise where supporters towards the front of the lower Gwladys Street End became involved in a confrontation between players.

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

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Lopes attempted to play down the incident following the full-time whistle, saying: "It was no big deal, it happened and that was it.

"For me it seemed to wake up the fans and they seemed to love it.

"I don't think it is part of the English atmosphere to hit an away player, but it was like this. But I am proud that we were strong at 1-1 we won the game despite everything. It was a very proud night for us."

Williams and Lyon forward Bertrand Traore were the only players punished after the flashpoint calmed down, referee Rob van de Ven showing both yellow cards.

"It's what happens, it's football. It is what it is," Williams said. "It's high emotions. We want to win the game, they want to win the game and stuff happens. That was just one of those times."

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