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Punished

Marseille suspend Patrice Evra following kung-fu kick on fan but claim player received ‘serious hateful attacks’

Former Manchester United left-back was slammed after launching a stunning attack on a fan before their Europa League clash

MARSEILLE have suspended Patrice Evra after he kicked a fan following a heated exchange.

The ex-Manchester United left-back launched a stunning attack on a supporter before their Europa League clash on Thursday.

 Patrice Evra has been suspended for launching a kick on a fan before their Europa League clash
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Patrice Evra has been suspended for launching a kick on a fan before their Europa League clash

Evra, 36, completely lost his cool following a heated exchange before throwing a left boot in the head of his own supporter.

A statement released by Marseille claims the club's president met Evra today and "informed him of his layoff with immediate effect."

It reads: "Jacques-Henri Eyraud, President of Olympique de Marseille, met Patrice Evra today and informed him of his layoff with immediate effect and his summons to an interview prior to a possible disciplinary action.

"In addition, the first results of the internal investigation conducted by the club reveal an unacceptable behaviour on the part of a handful of provocateurs who uttered particularly serious hateful attacks against the player, even though the latter and his teammates warmed up for an important meeting.

 Patrice Evra clashed with a Marseille fan after reacting to their abuse
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Patrice Evra clashed with a Marseille fan after reacting to their abuseCredit: AP:Associated Press
 The former Man United left-back is under investigation from the club
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The former Man United left-back is under investigation from the clubCredit: AFP

"As a professional and experienced player, Patrice Evra could not respond in such an inappropriate way.

"The club is continuing its investigation and will use all the legal means at its disposal against individuals who, under the guise of their passion for OM, endanger their reputation by entering the field and insulting a player, instead of supporting him."


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Under French law the club do not have to pay Evra whilst he undergoes his suspension.

Although Marseille far from condone Evra's actions, their statements appears to show no remorse to the supporter following his "serious hateful attacks."

Marseille player Patrice Evra KICKS his own fan, in physical brawl before Europa League match
 Marseille president Jacques-Henri Eyraud held talks with Patrice Evra on Friday
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Marseille president Jacques-Henri Eyraud held talks with Patrice Evra on FridayCredit: AFP or licensors

According to tweets from journalists and those in attendance, Evra had been the victim of singing and insults for around half an hour as he prepared for the game.

As the video footage shows, a number of fans had made their way out of the stand and got pitchside after Evra had gone over to confront them.

Evra had been named on the bench for the game, but the referee issued him with a red card for his actions.

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