Former Newcastle United fan favourite Jetro Willem has been punched by a fan in an ugly clash which led to an Eredivisie clash to be temporarily suspended. The 28-year-old attempted to play the role of peacemaker as the tensions boiled over in the derby clash between Groningen and Heerenveen, only to be targeted by a supporter of his own club.
Willems spent a solitary season on Tyneside after joining on loan from Frankfurt in the summer of 2019. The versatile star's impact was curtailed after he suffered an ACL injury in the following January, but the Netherlands international is still fondly remembered by the Toon Army having netted memorable strikes against Liverpool and Manchester City.
Willems now represents Groningen, having spent two seasons with German outfit Greuther Furth. The left-back started for the hosts on Sunday, who trailed to a brace from Sydney van Hooijdonk when disgruntled supporters invaded the pitch in the 80th minute.
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The former Magpie was among the Groningen players who looked to assist stewards, only to receive a punch to the top of his head according to the Mirror. Willems did not appear to be hurt in the incident, with both sides directed to their dressing rooms by referee Serdar Gozubuyuk.
There were fears the match may have to be abandoned as a result, but play did get back under way as Heerenveen held for a 2-0 victory. It was only Willems' sixth appearance for Groningen, having joined on a short-term deal last month.
