Cristiano Ronaldo has apologised after he appeared to smack a mobile phone out of the hand of an Everton supporter.
The Manchester United forward was seen walking off the pitch at Goodson Park, when he appeared to swipe at a fan watching on.
Eyewitnesses at the ground claimed the supporter had his phone smashed in the incident.
The 37-year-old took to Instagram last night to apologise for his ‘outburst’.
He has also invited the Everton fan to watch a game at Manchester United’s Old Trafford home in the future.
“It’s never easy to deal with emotions in difficult moments such as the one we are facing”, the Portuguese player wrote.
“Nevertheless, we always have to be respectful, patient and set the example for all the youngsters who love the beautiful game.
“I would like to apologise for my outburst and, if possible, I would like to invite this supporter to watch a game at Old Trafford as a sign of fair play and sportsmanship.”
Merseyside Police confirmed that it is looking into the incident involving Cristiano Ronaldo.
A spokesperson told 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."
The incident came after Manchester United lost 1-0 to relegation-threatened Everton in the English Premier League on Saturday afternoon.
Anthony Gordon scored the only goal of the game in 27th minute to secure The Toffees an unlikely three points.
The loss left Manchester United in seventh place, with The Red Devils now six points off the Champions League spots in the league table.
Don't miss the latest news from around Scotland and beyond - Sign up to our daily newsletter here .
