New footage has emerged following an incident in which a fan punched Arsenal goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale at the end of Arsenal’s 2-0 win against Tottenham on Sunday.
No arrests have yet been made in connection with the incident.
In the new pictures, which Sky Sports News shared with city police, Ramsdale was seen reaching for his water bottle before being kicked in the back. The referee pushes the fan off the advertising screen. The individual retreats and then quickly tries to cover their tracks.
He returns to the stand. The camera follows his progress as he runs down the stairs, then pans to several other fans who seem to know him.
The fan then leans back, takes off his scarf and looks out of breath. His face is clearly visible.
Aaron Ramsdale was involved in a heated confrontation with Richarlison and Tottenham fans, one of whom attempted to punch the Arsenal goalkeeper during the end of the north London derby
He then tries to cover his face with a scarf again before deciding to remove his scarf and coat, before exiting the stadium.
The incident came after Arsenal beat Tottenham 2-0 in Sunday’s north London derby at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, sending the Gunners eight points clear at the top of the Premier League.
Highlights of the Premier League match between Tottenham and Arsenal
Ramsdale said after the game Sky Sports: “The Spurs fans gave me something and I gave them something back. A few people I did that to were well received [by them] and sportsmanship, and then someone jumped over me and gave it to me [kick] behind. It’s a shame because it’s just a football game.
“Both sets of players had to take me. Fortunately, nothing drastic happened, and it’s a sour taste. I’m sure we’ll enjoy it when we get back to the dressing room.”
FA, Spurs, Premier League condemn the incident
Tottenham said in a statement: “We are appalled by the behavior of the fan who attempted to attack Arsenal goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale at the end of today’s game. Violence in any form has no place in football.
“The club has reviewed its CCTV footage to identify the fan and will work with the Met Police, Arsenal and Aaron Ramsdale to take the strongest possible action, including an immediate ban from the Tottenham Hotspur stadium.”
A statement from the Football Association said: “We strongly condemn the incident involving a spectator watching today’s Premier League match between Tottenham Hotspur and Arsenal.
“This is completely unacceptable behavior and we will work together with the police, the relevant authorities and the clubs to ensure that appropriate action is taken.”
A statement from the Premier League read: “The Premier League condemns the behavior of the fans at the end of tonight’s match between Tottenham Hotspur FC and Arsenal FC.
“There is no place for violence in football and under no circumstances should players be attacked or fear for their safety during matches.
“The league will support the clubs and the relevant authorities in taking the strongest possible action against the individuals responsible.”
Met Police: Inquiries are ongoing
The Met Police said in a statement: “Following the Tottenham Hotspur v Arsenal match on Sunday 15 January, police received a report of an assault on an Arsenal player after the match.
“The investigation is ongoing. No arrests have been made.”
Redknapp: That is unacceptable
Jamie Redknapp in the Super Sunday studio:
“It’s unacceptable from Spurs fans. Ramsdale was getting a stick all game and he reacted – that’s part of football, you’re going to get a stick.
“But for a fan to do that and try to kick a player on the pitch, that’s unacceptable. I’m sure Spurs will act accordingly. That guy shouldn’t be allowed into football stadiums. It’s not right.”
Tottenham defender Eric Dier said of the incident: “I didn’t see it but obviously it’s really unacceptable. There’s nothing more I can say other than it’s unacceptable and it shouldn’t have happened.”
Spurs boss Antonio Conte said: “I haven’t seen it before. If this situation happens [then] not good, not positive.
“I think we have to show respect at all times. If we want respect, we have to show it. Honestly, I didn’t see this [incident] but if this situation happens I certainly don’t like it.”
PFA: Players have a right to safety in their workplace
A PFA statement said: “Violence towards players is completely unacceptable. Such incidents happen all too often.
“Players have a right to be safe in their workplace. When a player is attacked, we expect that the laws and regulations that protect them must be properly enforced.
“As the players’ union we are treating this as a matter of priority. We will continue to work with the authorities to demand that players and staff are better protected in their workplace.”
Former Arsenal and England striker Lianne Sanderson tweeted: “That idiot who kicked or tried to kick @AaronRamsdale98 should be banned for life. Hate to see stuff like that. What’s wrong with people.”