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    Bitter 50-year feud between two football clubs 200 miles apart with ‘lockdown’ youths fuelling new wave of hooliganism

    TWO Football League clubs have formed an unlikely bitter feud stretching back 50 years – despite being 200 miles apart.Geography is the usually the predominant cause of a rivalry, with hatred instilled within fans from a young age.Cops broke up a brawl between youths ahead of the Coventry and Sunderland gameCredit: Channel 4A pitch invader is tackled by stewards after running onto the field with a flareCredit: Channel 4Sunderland fans clashing with police following their match with CoventryCredit: Channel 4Cops patrolling the Coventry and Sunderland gameBased hundreds of miles apart, Sunderland and Coventry City had an indifferent opinion of each other for much of their respective existences.But the two Football League clubs have maintained a deep hatred for each other since the final day of the 1976/77 season.The teams were not playing against each other, but were vying for safety in the top-flight of English football.As is customary on the final day, the games had been scheduled to kick off at the same time.Read more footballBut owing to traffic congestion outside Coventry’s Highfield Stadium, then director Jimmy Hill delayed the start of his club’s game by 15 minutes to allow fans of the home side time to make into the ground.Sunderland ultimately lost to Everton 2-0 on the day, with the result being broadcast mid-game for all to hear at Coventry.Coventry’s encounter with Bristol City subsequently petered out into a 2-2 draw with both sides knowing a point was enough to keep them up – and so little effort was made to score.It meant Sunderland were relegated out of the top-flight and would remain in the second division for three years.Most read in FootballFifty years later, the rivalry between the clubs remains just as intense.New Channel 4 documentary Football Cops follows police as they work to prevent outbreaks of violence at matches across England.Watch footballer punch rival in furious fit of rage as fans demand lifetime ban for moment of madnessThe series opener on Monday night showed Dedicated Football Officers (DFOs) fighting an uphill battle while patrolling Coventry and Sunderland fans during the 2022/23 season.But many leading the chaos weren’t born when the infamous incident occurred.Instead, police found themselves breaking up a group of youths brawling in a car park in close proximity to the ground.It comes as an expert warned a “lockdown generation” of youngsters are fuelling a return of hooliganism across Britain.Geoff Pearson, professor of law at the University of Manchester, has suggested older family members would usually set boundaries for acceptable behaviour when attending games.But he said boys stuck in lockdown had missed out on this step and are now rushing to stadiums together.He told MailOnline: “If you think of how fan communities work when you don’t have lockdowns, young fans go with family members, who at points will make interventions and draw the line about what is acceptable. “During lockdown these young fans were set at home. So you had a sudden rush of young, new fans rushing into stadiums at the same time.”Ahead of the fixture, DFOs had positioned themselves around local pubs to prevent away fans from entering.One officer told the show that away fans outnumbering home supporters in a pub is seen as “a big thing”.Cops also followed a group of 70 youths as they chanted expletive-filled songs before the match.Once inside the stadium, DFOs spotted a fan with a blue flare, who then sprinted onto the pitch waving it around.The man was subsequently arrested and handed a four-year football banning order.But the violence continued after the game as Sunderland fans became enraged and knocked down a barrier as they were taunted by Coventry supporters.It comes as football-related arrests have reached their highest level for nine years.The latest data shows there were 2,264 football-related arrests across the 2022/23 season.READ MORE SUN STORIESThere was also the highest number of new football banning orders for a decade, with 682 issued.The majority of banning orders were handed to men aged between 18 and 34, figures show.Then Coventry City manager Jimmy Hill signing autographs for young fans in August 1967Credit: GettyAmad Diallo of Sunderland scores the only goal during the match between Coventry and Sunderland at the Coventry Building Society Arena on February 25, 2023Credit: GettyPolice officers on the pitch during the disorder at West Brom vs Wolves in the FA Cup in JanuaryCredit: PAJonny Sunley (DFO Carlisle United), Stu Spencer “Cardio” (DFO Coventry City), Wayne Mitchell (National DFO UK Football Policing Unit), Jessy Sorrell (Operational Football Officer or “Spotter” Ipswich Town) and Rickie Wallbank (DFO Brrow AFC)Credit: Patch Dolan / Channel 4 More

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    ‘Gang posed as FANS wanting a selfie to lure Spurs star Yves Bissouma’ before stealing £260k watch in tear gas mugging

    TOTTENHAM star Yves Bissouma was lured by a gang posing as fans wanting a selfie before he was tear gassed and mugged, police have revealed.The Spurs midfielder, 27, was robbed of his £260,000 Richard Mille luxury watch as he arrived at a French hotel with his girlfriend in the early hours of Sunday morning.Spurs midfielder Yves Bissouma had his £26,000 Richard Mille watch stolen after being tear gassed and mugged by masked men posing as fansCredit: RexThe Mali international seen seen wearing one of the luxury watchesCredit: instagramBissouma is known to show off his impressive clothing and jewellery collectionCredit: InstagramThe Premier League midfielder pictured standing in front of his car wearing another of his luxury watchesCredit: InstagramTwo masked men also ripped three diamond rings off his unidentified partner fingers as they tried to check into the five-star Majestic Barriere hotel in Cannes at around 4am.Officers in the French Riviera resort described how the pair were confronted by the criminals, with Bissouma telling police he tried to take refuge inside the five-star property – but its doors were locked.”They were clearly part of a very well organised gang,” a local judicial police source said.”Both were waiting outside the hotel, and struck when the couple were dropped off by a chauffer-driven limousine at about 4am.Read more in Football”At first the men acted as is they want to pose for photographs with the star, but then it became clear they were wearing masks.”The couple tried to get into the hotel, but were confronted with a locked door, and then gas was sprayed in their faces.”A Richard Mille watch was taken, along with three diamond rings, before the men escaped in a Renault Megane.”Bissouma and his girlfriend were so shocked and dismayed by the attack that they returned to London within a few hours. Most read in FootballThey had been due to spend several days’ holiday at the French resort.A spokesperson for Tottenham told The Sun: “We are aware of the incident that took place and we will continue to check on the welfare of Yves and his family.”Newcastle’s £100m striker Alexander Isak’s mansion hit by gang of robbers in latest raid on Prem aces’ homesProsecutors in Cannes have opened a criminal enquiry into the robbery, while police and gendarmes try to find those responsible.They are hoping that some of the attack may have been captured on CCTV, along with the car’s number plate. The source said such attacks were increasingly common across France, and especially in upmarket towns such as Cannes in recent years, with over 30 incidents reported since January 2023.Two watches worth around £200,000 each were stolen during the annual Film Festival last month, which attracts celebrities from all over the world, and especially Hollywood. Brands such as Richard Mille, Patek Philippe and Rolex are targeted because they can easily be sold off for more than cost price on the secondary watch market.Bissouma was born in French-speaking Ivory Coast, but now represents Mali as an international. The shocking incident comes as a second major blow to the midfielder this year, having contracted malaria while on international duty in January during the Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast. READ MORE SUN STORIESBissouma spent four seasons with Brighton & Hove Albion, scoring six goals in 124 games, before Spurs paid £30million for him in 2022.The defensive midfielder also spent two seasons with French club Lille before moving to the UK.Recent footballers targeted by thieves
    By Tom Malley
    Alexander Isak – April 2024
    Newcastle forward Alexander Isak is one of the most recent footballers to be targeted by thieves after his luxury home was raided in April.
    Professional robbers struck the Swede’s luxury home just 48 hours before he played in the Toon’s 1-0 win at Fulham on April 5.
    It was not known whether Isak, 24, or any family were at home at the time but cops confirmed a car was stolen and later found abandoned three miles away from the property.
    Kevin Volland – February 2024
    Germany and Union Berlin striker Volland had his £150,000 watch stolen by a street performer whilst on a night out in Berlin in February.
    Volland had been celebrating Union Berlin’s 1-0 win over Hoffenheim alongside team-mate Jerome Roussillon when his watch was nabbed while he was distracted.
    Roussillon subsequently ran after the perpetrator and caught him before retrieving the watch.
    Joelinton – January 2024
    Like his Newcastle team-mate Isak, midfielder Joelinton was also the subject of a sickening home break-in when three burglars entered his mansion.
    The injured Brazilian had been watching his team take on Man City from the sidelines when he got an alert that thugs had entered his house.
    While at St James’ Park he immediately contacted the police who raced to the address in Northumberland, only to find the attackers had already fled.
    Jack Grealish – December 2023
    In December, Man City star Jack Grealish’s £5.6million Cheshire pad was raided by thieves while he was playing.
    His loved ones, including partner Sasha Attwood, were forced to take cover as cops rushed to the £5.6million home to avoid a potential hostage situation.
    The robbers made off with £1million worth of jewellery and watches, while Grealish’s family were left “really shaken” in the horror.

    Bissouma and his girlfriend were robbed outside the 5-star Majestic Barriere hotel in Cannes at around 4am on SundayCredit: GettyBissouma has since returned to England following Sunday’s attackCredit: RexThe former Brighton ace has already suffered one major setback this year when he caught malaria representing Mali at AFCON in the Ivory Coast in JanuaryCredit: Getty More

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    Spurs star Yves Bissouma sprayed with tear gas outside 5* French hotel before muggers make off with £260,000 watch

    TOTTENHAM star Yves Bissouma has had his £260,000 watch stolen after brazen muggers sprayed tear gas in his face outside a five star hotel in France.The £30million midfielder and his wife were attacked as they arrived at a luxury hotel in Cannes at the weekend.Spurs midfielder Yves Bissouma was the subject of a vicious attack in France on SundayCredit: RexThe incident happened outside the 5-star Majestic Barriere hotel in Cannes at around 4amCredit: GettyThe Premier League midfielder previously wearing one of his luxury watchesCredit: InstagramBissouma is known to show off his impressive clothing and jewellery collectionCredit: InstagramTwo hooded men reportedly pounced on Bissouma, 27, as he got out of his car outside the Majestic Barriere hotel at around 4am on Sunday.The former Brighton star told police he tried to take refuge inside the five-star property, but its doors were locked.The robbers then allegedly sprayed tear gas in his face before ripping a £260,000 watch from his wrist.They made off in a car, leaving the player and his WAG shocked and dismayed.Read more in FootballFrench national police have opened an inquiry.The incident took place on the Promenade de la Croisette, up-market Cannes’ swankiest street.Bissouma and his partner returned to England later on Sunday.They had been due to spend several days’ holiday at the French resort.Most read in FootballA spokesperson for Tottenham told The Sun: “We are aware of the incident that took place and we will continue to check on the welfare of Yves and his family.”Joelinton’s mansion targeted by thieves as Newcastle winger calls cops after getting alert burglars were lurking in homeThe shocking incident is the second blow this year for the Mali international, who contracted malaria while on international duty in January.He caught the potentially fatal infection at the Africa Cup of Nations in the Ivory Coast, ironically the country of his birth.Bissouma spent four seasons with Brighton, scoring six goals in 124 games, before Spurs paid £30m for him in 2022.He has since made 56 appearances for the north Londoners.The midfielder spent two seasons with French club Lille before landing his move to Brighton.Watch thefts have plagued Cannes in recent years, with over 30 incidents reported since January 2023.Bissouma is just the latest footballer to be targeted by robbers following a spate of terrifying raids on star’s homes across England.Newcastle players Alexander Isak and Joelinton, England stars Jack Grealish and Raheem Sterling, and West Ham defender Kurt Zouma have all been victims of theft in the past 12 months.In 2023, there were five burglaries alone on the homes of footballers.Bissouma has since returned to England following Sunday’s attackCredit: RexThe midfielder has made 56 appearances for Spurs since joining for £30m from Brighton in 2022Credit: RexBissouma has already suffered one major setback this year when he caught malaria representing Mali at AFCON in the Ivory Coast in JanuaryCredit: GettyThis prompted the former boss of a national intelligence unit focused on series organised crime to issue a chilling warning.Supt Carl Williams suggested the gangs are scouring social media feeds to learn players’ timetables.He added: “In today’s world where many wealthy individuals are active on social media their significant public profile can help make them targets.“Their high-value possessions are often on display as well as information about their plans.”But the true reason behind the spate of high-end robberies could be even more sinister.It is feared the thieves, many of whom reside in Albania, are flying into the UK specifically to burgle Prem stars.READ MORE SUN STORIESThey will then flee the country – often wearing the stolen goods while going through airport security.Many of the stars have been targeted by “away day” looters who will strike when teams travel for their games.Recent footballers targeted by thieves
    By Tom Malley
    Alexander Isak – April 2024
    Newcastle forward Alexander Isak is one of the most recent footballers to be targeted by thieves after his luxury home was raided in April.
    Professional robbers struck the Swede’s luxury home just 48 hours before he played in the Toon’s 1-0 win at Fulham on April 5.
    It was not known whether Isak, 24, or any family were at home at the time but cops confirmed a car was stolen and later found abandoned three miles away from the property.
    Kevin Volland – February 2024
    Germany and Union Berlin striker Volland had his £150,000 watch stolen by a street performer whilst on a night out in Berlin in February.
    Volland had been celebrating Union Berlin’s 1-0 win over Hoffenheim alongside team-mate Jerome Roussillon when his watch was nabbed while he was distracted.
    Roussillon subsequently ran after the perpetrator and caught him before retrieving the watch.
    Joelinton – January 2024
    Like his Newcastle team-mate Isak, midfielder Joelinton was also the subject of a sickening home break-in when three burglars entered his mansion.
    The injured Brazilian had been watching his team take on Man City from the sidelines when he got an alert that thugs had entered his house.
    While at St James’ Park he immediately contacted the police who raced to the address in Northumberland, only to find the attackers had already fled.
    Jack Grealish – December 2023
    In December, Man City star Jack Grealish’s £5.6million Cheshire pad was raided by thieves while he was playing.
    His loved ones, including partner Sasha Attwood, were forced to take cover as cops rushed to the £5.6million home to avoid a potential hostage situation.
    The robbers made off with £1million worth of jewellery and watches, while Grealish’s family were left “really shaken” in the horror. More

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    Three people including schoolboy, 16, charged after fans invaded pitch during Champions League final at Wembley

    THREE people including a 16-year-old schoolboy have been charged with invading the pitch during the Champions League final at Wembley.Yevhenii Lubnenko, 29, David Carneckij, 28, and the teenager are accused of going on to the playing area at a football match contrary to Section 4 of the Football (Offences) Act 1991.Three people were arrested after the chaos at the Champions League Final at WembleyCredit: GettyReal Madrid took home European football’s most prestigious trophy on Saturday nightCredit: RexThe 16-year-old, who cannot be named for legal reasons, will appear at Highbury Corner Youth Court on June 24.Lubnenko, of no fixed address, will appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Monday.Meanwhile, Carneckij, of Walworth Road, south-east London, is due to appear at the same court on July 10.The Metropolitan Police said that inquiries continue into two other people arrested in connection with the same incident.Read More in FootballIn total, police made 56 arrests around the Champions League final between Borussia Dortmund and Real Madrid.The Spanish outfit won 2-0 and secured a 15th European Cup despite a strong performance from Dortmund at a cacophonous Wembley.Prior to the showpiece event, stadium bosses announced their commitment to clamp down on “poor fan behaviour” ahead of Saturday’s match.But the off-field chaos came despite a £5million ring of steel defence which was put in place to avoid a repeat of England’s Euro 2020 day of shame.Most read in FootballFive arrests were said to be for pitch invasions while the majority of others were attempts to breach security.More than 2,000 police were out on duty to police the final but the force could still not contain the mayhem.However, a spokesperson for the force said on Saturday that the force was confident the “overwhelming majority” of attempts to unlawfully gain access to the stadium were unsuccessful.The statement added that there was a “robust” policing operation in place to support Wembley stewards and stadium staff.A Wembley spokesperson revealed yesterday that three pitch invaders have all been arrested.A statement said: “It is illegal to enter the field of play at Wembley Stadium, and we strongly condemn the actions of those who interrupted the UEFA Champions League Final shortly after kick-off.”All of the individuals have now been arrested. We will support the relevant authorities to ensure appropriate action is taken.”It comes just under three years after a security debacle at the Euro 2020 final where 2,000 ticketless fans descended onto the approach to Wembley stadium before kick-off.Since the Euro 2020 final the FA has spent £5million on implementing new safety and security measures, including the creation of a “robust perimeter”.The investment has been used to solidify the stadium’s security infrastructure.This included increasing the strength of all Wembley’s doors with additional magnetic lock systems to ensure there is no repeat of people successfully ripping them off their hinges. Additional fences and gates have been delivered throughout Wembley’s parameters, while the area underneath the iconic Olympic steps has been significantly bolstered since the Euros final.READ MORE SUN STORIESA significant part of the money has been spent on improving CCTV in and around Wembley, while a second security control room big enough to house around 18 officers has been opened.The FA has also invested in providing additional body cameras for event stewards.It was misery for Dortmund who suffered a second Champions League final defeat at Wembley More

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    More than 50 arrested as fans storm Wembley & clash with cops during Champions League final despite £5m ‘ring of steel’

    MORE than 50 troublemakers have been arrested after fans stormed Wembley and clashed with cops during the Champions League final.Shocking footage shows a large group of people jumping over fences and pushing through ticket stalls at the iconic London stadium before Real Madrid’s clash with Borussia Dortmund.Cops were out in force at WembleyCredit: Story Picture AgencyFans caused a mad rush as they pushed through the ticket stalls at the Club Wembley’s main entranceCops were out in force as fans descended on WembleyCredit: GettyA pitch invader is taken down with the help of Dortmund player Marcel SabitzerCredit: ReutersAnother pitch invader being frogmarched off the pitchCredit: ReutersA pitch invader attempts to take a selfie on a mobile phone with Vinicius JrCredit: GettySupporters of Dortmund light flares as they perform a tifo during the UEFA Champions League finalCredit: EPAThe Spanish outfit won 2-0 and secured a 15th European Cup despite a strong performance from Dortmund at a cacophonous Wembley.But the off-field chaos came despite a £5million ring of steel defence which was put in place to avoid a repeat of England’s Euro 2020 day of shame.More than 2,000 police were out on duty to police the final but the force could still not contain the mayhem.The Metropolitan Police confirmed that officers had made 53 arrests at Wembley.Read More in FootballFive were aid to be for pitch invasion while the majority of others were attempts to breach security.Cops said they were confident that the “overwhelming majority of attempts” to get into Wembley on Saturday night were “unsuccessful”.Just 30 seconds after the European showpiece kicked off, play was stopped due to three pitch invaders.One of the people who ran onto the pitch stopped to take a selfie with Real Madrid star Vinicius Junior. Most read in FootballThe trio of troublemakers evaded Wembley’s beefed up £5million security operation and made their way onto the pitch – each sporting the name ‘Mellstroy’ on their T-shirts.Two invaders were quickly removed by Wembley Stadium security staff, but then another person ran onto the field to the visible annoyance of some players. Borussia Dortmund fans release flares during half-time of Champions League final in second Wembley security breachIt took four security staff to apprehend the last invader, marking a shaky start to tonight’s huge match.Mellstroy is a controversial Russian blogger, who social media reports suggest had offered £300,000 to anyone who stormed the pitch wearing his name.The 25-year-old streamer, real name Andrey Burim, has been accused of going to extreme lengths to attract views.A Wembley spokesperson revealed the three pitch invaders have all been arrested.A statement said: “It is illegal to enter the field of play at Wembley Stadium, and we strongly condemn the actions of those who interrupted the UEFA Champions League Final shortly after kick-off.”All of the individuals have now been arrested. We will support the relevant authorities to ensure appropriate action is taken.”Footage shows a group of hooded men attempting to rush the entrances of the stadium.Some can be seen actually getting inside the Club Wembley entrance as they break past security. As well as this, the video outside the stadium shows what appears to be fans fighting on the ground. To combat this, police mounted on horses rush in as reinforcements with riot police also seen marching down the street.BEEFED UP SECURITYMore than 2,500 security stewards were deployed, the most Wembley has ever seen.The investment has been used to solidify the stadium’s security infrastructure, including increasing the strength of all Wembley’s doors with additional magnetic lock systems to ensure there is no repeat of people successfully ripping them off their hinges. Additional fences and gates have been delivered throughout Wembley’s parameters, while the area underneath the iconic Olympic steps has been significantly bolstered since the Euros final.A significant part of the money has been spent on improving CCTV in and around Wembley, while a second security control room big enough to house around 18 officers has been opened with the specific remit of monitoring events outside the stadium’s perimeter, including tube stations and local pubs.The FA has also invested in providing additional body cameras for event stewards.The Metropolitan Police said: “We are confident that the overwhelming majority of attempts to unlawfully gain access to Wembley this evening were unsuccessful thanks to the efforts of officers, stewards and other stadium staff.”Officers have made 53 arrests at Wembley – five for pitch invasion and the majority of others for attempts to breach security.”There is a robust policing operation in place to support the Wembley security plan and officers have worked closely with stewards and stadium staff to maintain security throughout.”Videos shared online showing groups running into entrances do not necessarily represent successful attempts to enter the stadium.READ MORE SUN STORIES”There are typically multiple further levels of security beyond an initial entrance.”Officers remain in the area outside the stadium and will deal decisively with any criminality.”Real Madrid secured the Champions League for the 15th timeCredit: ReutersIt was misery for the German side who suffered a second Champions League final defeat at WembleyDani Carvajal headed Real Madrid in front in the 74th minuteCredit: PAJude Bellingham set up Vinicius Jr for the second goalCredit: Reuters More

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    Fan who ‘headbutted’ Roy Keane tells court ‘angry’ pundit told me to ‘meet him outside’ as he banged on Sky box window

    A FAN accused of headbutting Roy Keane wept in court today as he claimed the “angry” ex-footballer told him to “see me outside”.Scott Law claimed the pundit was “puffing his cheeks out” and banging on the window of the Sky box at the Emirates.Scott Law claimed Roy Keane told him to meet him outsideCredit: PAThe pair were involved in a brawl at the EmiratesCredit: PALaw allegedly headbutted Keane after the ex-Utd player celebrated a goal from his former teamThe 43-year-old, who is accused of knocking Keane through a set of doors, said he had “never really seen that behaviour from someone who was working in the Sky box”.Law added: “Mr Keane picked me out and started telling me to see him outside. He was pointing to doors in the box.”The dad was watching Arsenal take on Utd when Keane, 52, celebrated a goal from his former club.He claimed he went inside the stadium to go to the toilet and encountered the ex-footballer, who “collided into him”.Read more news Prosecutor Simon Jones KC asked: “Are you seriously saying that Roy Keane ran into the top of your head?”Law, who cried while being questioned, said: “I put my head down in a defensive manner to protect my face.”He also told Highbury Corner Magistrates’ Court he suffered injuries to his face from “Mr Keane’s elbow”.Footage released yesterday apparently shows Keane elbowing Law in the aftermath of the alleged headbutt incident.Most read in FootballThe Arsenal fan was accused of “dramatically” changing his “ridiculous” defence from a prepared statement he gave police the next day.Law had claimed he moved his head forward “in a pre-emptive strike” to defend himself from a “violent approach” by Keane. ‘I’m happy to be proved wrong,’ says Roy Keane as Man Utd legend eats his words about current star after FA Cup triumphWhen quizzed about the change in story, the civil engineer claimed he had “no sleep”, adding: “It was the worst night of my life.”Law’s evidence comes after Micah Richards earlier took the stand after he stepped in to restrain the football fan.The Sky Sports pundit was forced to deny he was Keane’s “puppy” as he told the court he “did what any friend would”.Richards added: “I grappled with him. I said what did you do that for? He was saying f***ing this, f***ing that.“I grabbed him and moved him down the corridor.“I had him, I couldn’t hold him for long enough so he run off. I was trying to restrain him until security arrived.“He said ‘I’m sorry, I’m sorry’.”Micah Richards stepped in to help his ‘friend’ RoyCredit: PAHe was seen restraining Law in the aftermath of the ‘headbutt’ incidentCredit: PARichards gave evidence at the trial todayCredit: Andrew StyczynskiRichards said Keane was “physically massively shaken up” after Law “arched his head back” during the brawl.The ex-England ace added: “I felt a bit sorry for Roy. I was shocked and so was Roy, we were in disbelief. I think he handled it quite well.“I intervened, I felt sorry for Roy, he came to work to do his job and he was assaulted.“I did what any friend would do, I stopped him and diffused the situation.”But defence lawyer Charles Sherrard KC branded Richards “Roy Keane’s stooge” and said he believes there was never a headbutt.Richards then told the court his colleague was just “trying to defend himself” after footage apparently showed Keane elbowing Law in the aftermath.Mr Sherrard said: “I’m going to suggest this is where you are Mr Keane’s puppy. It’s an uppercut elbow to the nose.”But Richards said he didn’t agree, and also denied a footballer would get sent off for displaying similar tactics.Inside Roy Keane and Micah Richards’ unlikely bromance
    Roy Keane and Micah Richards may have been separated by the Manchester divide as players.
    But they have been thick as thieves since forming an unlikely friendship as pundits.
    The duo initially appeared to be chalk and cheese while appearing on Sky Sports.
    But despite their differing personalities, they have an underlying respect.
    Fun-loving ex-City star Richards, 35, once said of his notoriously grump United pal: “Never did I think we’d have a relationship like that. Working with him is an absolute pleasure.
    “I’m in awe of him.”
    Ahead of Euro 2020, the pair starred in their own show together, with their on-screen chemistry and friendship clear for all to see.
    The five-episode series, titled “Micah and Roy’s Road to Wembley”, followed the pair during that summer’s European Championships.

    Keane was previously accused of taking “glory” in his reputation as “a hard man” as he was grilled over infamous tackles during his career.Mr Sherrard also referenced Keane holding the record for the most red cards in English football.He then suggested Keane had used “gratuitous violence” by smashing Law in the face.The lawyer said: “How are you stopping somebody getting away with an elbow to the face – with your bent arm?“That was your way of retaliating. You were the only person who delivered any unlawful violence. There was no need for that was there?”That injury to Mr Law’s nose was caused by you, in that way, in that moment.”But taking the stand, Keane denied all the allegations, with the court told he was actually carrying a bag in each hand at the time.He said: “I was assaulted in the workplace as a pundit and I was trying to stop him getting away.”That was my only intention.”The court heard the ex-footballers had been commenting on the game from a glass studio before the attack on September 3.Law was sat in front of the room when he noticed Keane celebrating a Utd goal, which was later chalked off by VAR.Prosecutor Simon Jones told the court this was a “catalyst” for the “shocking and unlawful” attack.Law allegedly made his way to an area where he delivered a “forceful headbutt” to Keane’s chest – knocking him backwards.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe married dad fled the scene following the brawl but was arrested the following day, it was said.Law denies a charge of common assault. The trial continues.Keane previously denied he took glory in his ‘hardman’ imageLaw claims he was acting in self-defenceCredit: PA More

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    Micah Richards denies being Roy Keane’s ‘puppy’ after defending his ‘friend’ when he was ‘headbutted by fan’

    MICAH Richards today denied he was Roy Keane’s “puppy” after defending his “friend” when he was allegedly headbutted by a fan.Scott Law, 43, is accused of knocking the ex-Utd player through a set of doors after violence erupted at the Emirates.Roy Keane was allegedly seen elbowing a football fan who ‘headbutted’ himMicah Richards was then seen restraining Scott LawThe brawl erupted at the Emirates as Arsenal played Man UtdMicah Richards gave evidence at Highbury Corner Magistrates’ Court todayCredit: Andrew StyczynskiScott Law denies the charges against himCredit: PAKeane, 52, was celebrating a goal from his former side against Arsenal when he was attacked, Highbury Corner Magistrates’ Court heard.But Law claims he was just rushing to the toilet when the Sky Sports pundit ambushed him and called him a “fat c***”.He also claims “aggressive” Keane gestured to “meet him outside” during the September 3 melee.Richards was seen in CCTV footage stepping in to restrain Law before the alleged attacker fled the scene.Read more newsThe Sky Sports pundit today denied he was Keane’s “puppy” as he told the court he “did what any friend would”.Richards added: “I grappled with him. I said what did you do that for? He was saying f***ing this, f***ing that.“I grabbed him and moved him down the corridor.“I had him, I couldn’t hold him for long enough so he run off. I was trying to restrain him until security arrived.Most read in Football“He said ‘I’m sorry, I’m sorry’.”‘Why did you have to say that?’ says Micah Richards as Wayne Rooney destroys him with hilarious quip live on BBCRichards said Keane was “physically massively shaken up” after Law “arched his head back” during the brawl.The ex-England ace added: “I felt a bit sorry for Roy. I was shocked and so was Roy, we were in disbelief. I think he handled it quite well.“I intervened, I felt sorry for Roy, he came to work to do his job and he was assaulted.“I did what any friend would do, I stopped him and diffused the situation.”But defence lawyer Charles Sherrard KC branded Richards “Roy Keane’s stooge” and said he believes there was never a headbutt.Richards then told the court his colleague was just “trying to defend himself” after footage apparently showed Keane elbowing Law in the aftermath.Mr Sherrard said: “I’m going to suggest this is where you are Mr Keane’s puppy. It’s an uppercut elbow to the nose.”But Richards said he didn’t agree, and also denied a footballer would get sent off for displaying similar tactics.The former Man City star also accused Mr Sherrard of trying to “mince my words” after branding him a “liar on the stand”.He added: “I know what I saw. You can dress it up however you want to.”The elbow came in the aftermath of the alleged headbutt incidentKeane has been accused of using ‘gratuitous violence’He yelled for someone to call the police as Richards stepped in to helpIn his own evidence today, Law claimed Keane was “puffing his cheeks out” and banging on the window of the Sky box at the Emirates before the mayhem.He said he had “never really seen that behaviour from someone who was working in the Sky box”.Law added: “Mr Keane picked me out and started telling me to see him outside. He was pointing to doors in the box.”The dad was watching Arsenal take on Utd when Keane, 52, celebrated a goal from his former club.He claimed he went inside the stadium to go to the toilet and encountered the ex-footballer, who “collided into him”.Prosecutor Simon Jones KC asked: “Are you seriously saying that Roy Keane ran into the top of your head?”Law, who cried while being questioned, said: “I put my head down in a defensive manner to protect my face.”Inside Roy Keane and Micah Richards’ unlikely bromance
    Roy Keane and Micah Richards may have been separated by the Manchester divide as players.
    But they have been thick as thieves since forming an unlikely friendship as pundits.
    The duo initially appeared to be chalk and cheese while appearing on Sky Sports.
    But despite their differing personalities, they have an underlying respect.
    Fun-loving ex-City star Richards, 35, once said of his notoriously grump United pal: “Never did I think we’d have a relationship like that. Working with him is an absolute pleasure.
    “I’m in awe of him.”
    Ahead of Euro 2020, the pair starred in their own show together, with their on-screen chemistry and friendship clear for all to see.
    The five-episode series, titled “Micah and Roy’s Road to Wembley”, followed the pair during that summer’s European Championships.

    Keane was previously accused of taking “glory” in his reputation as “a hard man” as he was grilled over infamous tackles during his career.Mr Sherrard also referenced Keane holding the record for the most red cards in English football.He then suggested Keane had used “gratuitous violence” by smashing Law in the face.The lawyer said: “How are you stopping somebody getting away with an elbow to the face – with your bent arm?“That was your way of retaliating. You were the only person who delivered any unlawful violence. There was no need for that was there?”That injury to Mr Law’s nose was caused by you, in that way, in that moment.”But taking the stand, Keane denied all the allegations, with the court told he was actually carrying a bag in each hand at the time.He said: “I was assaulted in the workplace as a pundit and I was trying to stop him getting away.”That was my only intention.”Keane claimed he and Richards were heading down for the final match analysis when contact was made with his face that sent him backwards through a set of doors.The pundit continued: “The only way I can describe it is that I was in shock. I didn’t expect it to happen, not when I was in my workplace.”Keane told the court he saw the attacker being restrained by Richards, who was trying to make sure he didn’t “run off”.The footie hardman then started yelling for someone to “call the police” as his fellow pundit loosened his grip on Law, who fled.Keane, who suffered bruising on his chest and arms, added: “We missed the final two goals but that was the least of my worries.”The court heard the ex-footballers had been commenting on the game from a glass studio before the attack on September 3.Law was sat in front of the room when he noticed Keane celebrating a Utd goal, which was later chalked off by VAR.Prosecutor Simon Jones told the court this was a “catalyst” for the “shocking and unlawful” attack.”Hyped-up” Law then made his way to an area where he delivered a “forceful headbutt” to Keane’s chest – knocking him backwards.The married dad fled the scene following the brawl but was arrested the following day, it was said.He told officers in a prepared statement how Keane had “approached him in an aggressive manner” – causing him to throw his head back in self-defence.Law said: “Throughout the match there was what I would regard as banter between me and Mr Keane.READ MORE SUN STORIES”The banter turned more aggressive with Mr Keane gesturing towards me to meet him outside.”Law denies a charge of common assault. The trial continues.Micah denied he was Roy Keane’s ‘stooge’Credit: Rights reservedKeane appeared in court to give evidence previouslyCredit: PA More

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    Moment Roy Keane ‘elbows’ football fan who ‘headbutted him’ during brawl before Micah Richards restrains supporter

    THIS is the moment Roy Keane allegedly elbowed a football fan after he was “headbutted” during a brawl.Scott Law, 43, is accused of knocking the ex-Utd player through a set of doors after violence erupted at the Emirates.Footage allegedly shows Roy Keane elbowing a fan after he was ‘headbutted’Credit: Standard Micah Richards then steps in to restrain Scott Law, who later fledCredit: Standard The brawl erupted at the Emirates as Arsenal played Man UtdKeane, 52, was celebrating a goal from his former side against Arsenal when he was attacked, Highbury Corner Magistrates’ Court heard.But Law claims he was just rushing to the toilet when the Sky Sports pundit ambushed him and called him a “fat c***”.He also claims “aggressive” Keane gestured to “meet him outside” during the melee.Footage now shows the former footballer allegedly throwing an elbow at the supporter’s face in the aftermath of the fight.Keane’s fellow Sky Sports pundit Micah Richards then steps in to restrain Law before the alleged attacker fled the scene.Richards was heard saying: “Are you crazy? Are you f***ing mad? Say sorry.”The pundit said later: “Someone needs to arrest him, he’s just assaulted Roy Keane, don’t let him go.”JPs heard today Keane did not assault Law with an elbow to the face during the chaos.Most read in FootballDC Phillip Dickinson, from the Met’s Public Order Unit, said: “I don’t believe it was an intentional elbow to the face looking at the footage.”There may have been contact but it does not look like a deliberate elbow to the face in my opinion.” ‘I’m happy to be proved wrong,’ says Roy Keane as Man Utd legend eats his words about current star after FA Cup triumphBut defence lawyer Charles Sherrard KC branded the claims “absolute nonsense”.It came after the lawyer yesterday accused Keane of taking “glory” in his reputation as “a hard man” as he was grilled over infamous tackles during his career.He also referenced Keane holding the record for the most red cards in English football.Mr Sherrard brought up the 2001 horror tackle on Alf-Inge Haaland – telling to the court how the ex-footballer later revealed he “wanted to hurt him”.He then suggested Keane had used “gratuitous violence” by smashing Law in the face.The lawyer said: “How are you stopping somebody getting away with an elbow to the face – with your bent arm?“That was your way of retaliating. You were the only person who delivered any unlawful violence. There was no need for that was there?”That injury to Mr Law’s nose was caused by you, in that way, in that moment.”The elbow came in the aftermath of the alleged headbutt incidentCredit: Standard Keane has been accused of using ‘gratuitous violence’Credit: StandardHe yelled for someone to call the police as Richards stepped in to helpCredit: StandardBut taking the stand, Keane denied all the allegations, with the court told he was actually carrying a bag in each hand at the time.He said: “I was assaulted in the workplace as a pundit and I was trying to stop him getting away. “That was my only intention.”Keane claimed he and Richards were heading down for the final match analysis when contact was made with his face that sent him backwards through a set of doors.The pundit continued: “The only way I can describe it is that I was in shock. I didn’t expect it to happen, not when I was in my workplace.”Keane told the court he saw the attacker being restrained by Richards, who was trying to make sure he didn’t “run off”.The footie hardman then started yelling for someone to “call the police” as his fellow pundit loosened his grip on Law, who fled.Keane, who suffered bruising on his chest and arms, added: “We missed the final two goals but that was the least of my worries.”The court heard the ex-footballers had been commenting on the game from a glass studio before the attack on September 3.Law was sat in front of the room when he noticed Keane celebrating a Utd goal, which was later chalked off by VAR.Inside Roy Keane and Micah Richards’ unlikely bromance
    Roy Keane and Micah Richards may have been separated by the Manchester divide as players.
    But they have been thick as thieves since forming an unlikely friendship as pundits.
    The duo initially appeared to be chalk and cheese while appearing on Sky Sports.
    But despite their differing personalities, they have an underlying respect.
    Fun-loving ex-City star Richards, 35, once said of his notoriously grump United pal: “Never did I think we’d have a relationship like that. Working with him is an absolute pleasure.
    “I’m in awe of him.”
    Ahead of Euro 2020, the pair starred in their own show together, with their on-screen chemistry and friendship clear for all to see.
    The five-episode series, titled “Micah and Roy’s Road to Wembley”, followed the pair during that summer’s European Championships.

    Prosecutor Simon Jones told the court this was a “catalyst” for the “shocking and unlawful” attack.”Hyped-up” Law then made his way to an area where he delivered a “forceful headbutt” to Keane’s chest – knocking him backwards.The married dad fled the scene following the brawl but was arrested the following day, it was said.He told officers in a prepared statement how Keane had “approached him in an aggressive manner” – causing him to throw his head back in self-defence.Law said: “Throughout the match there was what I would regard as banter between me and Mr Keane.”The banter turned more aggressive with Mr Keane gesturing towards me to meet him outside.”Law told police he was an “avid football fan” and had seen Keane act violently before on the football pitch, adding that he was “scared” at the time of the incident.READ MORE SUN STORIESHe claimed during a “natural break in the game” he went to use the toilet and was approached by Keane in a “very aggressive manner”, adding: “His face looked angry.”Law denies a charge of common assault. The trial continues.Keane, pictured at court yesterday, denied glorifying in his hard man imageCredit: PAScott Law claims he acted in self-defenceCredit: Andrew Styczynski More