Everton act against fan who waded into Goodison aggro

Ian Watson

Everton have announced one of the supporters involved in the fracas that marred Thursday’s Europa League tie with Lyon will be banned from attending future games.

A Toffees fan, who was holding a child with one arm, appeared to try to strike Lyon’s Anthony Lopes during the second-half melee that was instigated by Ashley Williams’ barge on the visitors’ goalkeeper.

Merseyside Police have also announced they will investigate the crowd trouble, with Everton registering a formal complaint with the force.

An Everton statement read: “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.”

UEFA could also launch an investigation, but Ashley Williams said: “It’s just what happens. It’s football.”