Everton ban fan caught on TV punching Lyon goalkeeper while holding toddler
Toffees fan was spotted on camera throwing a punch as players from both sides were involved in mass brawl during Europa League clash at Goodison Park on Thursday
EVERTON have banned the fan caught on camera holding a young child while throwing punches at the Lyon goalkeeper during a 20-player brawl at Goodison Park last night.
Police have launched a probe into the incident while Uefa have now charged the Premier League side over the behaviour of home supporters during the shameful melee, with one fan — carrying a dummy-sucking child — appearing to attack Lyon keeper Anthony Lopes.
Uefa will now examine the shocking scenes that marred the French side's win on a night of shame for the Premier League side.
In a statement the club said: "Club officials have reviewed the footage of an incident that occurred in the 64th minute of the game against Olympique Lyonnais 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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Merseyside Police have launched their own investigation and said in a statement: "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 19 October.
"Detectives will be reviewing footage and speaking to witnesses to establish what, if any, offences have been committed.
COP PROBE Merseyside Police investigating Everton-Lyon brawl which saw man throw punch while holding kid
"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."
The second-half melee was sparked by Toffees captain Ashley Williams’ forearm smash into Lopes’ stomach, sending him crashing into advertising boards.
Players brawled in front of the crowd as fans in the stand — including the child-carrying dad — dashed to get involved and started lashing out.
He appeared to TWICE hit Lopes in the face, while Williams threw TWO punches and striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin grabbed defender Kenny Tete by the throat.
Even young goalkeeper Jordan Pickford sprinted the length of the pitch to join in.
And Williams then had to be hauled away by a member of Everton’s coaching staff.
Former Goodison defender Martin Keown accused Williams of stirring up crowd violence.
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He said: “Williams has incited trouble with the fans and the stewards got involved.
“The referee should be sending people off.
“There is a professional line which you don’t cross and they have.”
Incredibly, Williams refused to apologise.
He said: "It's high emotions. We want to win the game, they want to win the game and stuff happens.
“It’s football, it is what it is. It’s one of those times.”
