Police issue statement on Cristiano Ronaldo alleged ‘assault’ of Everton fan, new video emerges
New video footage has emerged of the incident between Cristiano Ronaldo and an Everton fan after the Toffees’ 1-0 win at Goodison Park yesterday (9 April).
This angle, posted on Twitter by @dominothement, shows a clearer view of the event that appears to show the Old Trafford superstar hitting something out of a supporter’s hand as he limps down the tunnel after the final whistle.
The 37-year-old has apologised for his “outburst” on his Instagram page, after the fan’s mother accused him of “assaulting” and “bruising” her son in a “terrible temper” when he “smashed” the boy’s phone to the ground (Liverpool Echo).
Merseyside Police have issued a statement on the matter, with a spokesperson telling the Liverpool Echo: “We can confirm that we are liaising with Manchester United Football Club and Everton FC following reports of an alleged assault at the Everton v Manchester United football match today (Saturday 9 April 2022) at Goodison.
“As players were leaving the pitch at 2.30pm it was reported that a boy was assaulted by one of the away team as they left the pitch.
“Inquiries are underway and officers are currently working with Everton Football club to review CCTV footage and are carrying out extensive witness enquiries to establish if an offence has taken place.
“Anyone with information on this incident is asked to contact Merseyside Police social media desk via Twitter @MerPolCC or Facebook Merseyside Police Contact centre quoting reference number 228 of 9 April 2022.”
United have confirmed they will cooperate with any police inquiries.
Bad day
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner clearly did not enjoy himself on Merseyside yesterday.
His side were far below their best as Frank Lampard’s men held firm to close out a crucial 1-0 victory.
The defeat was a major blow to United’s hopes of qualifying for the Champions League, just as it was hugely beneficial for the Toffees’ relegation fight.
The Portuguese was likely aggrieved due to the gash to his leg (Mirror) that was causing him to limp when he came into contact with the fans at the tunnel area.
It remains to be seen whether there will be further action from either a police of a Premier League perspective, but it clearly isn’t a good look for him.
He has apologised and invited the fan to Old Trafford, but it may not be enough to prevent the situation going away after a chastening afternoon at Goodison Park.
In other Everton news, Ian Wright was wowed by one Toffee on Match of the Day after the win.
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