A fan has been charged with assault by police after storming the Newcastle technical area and shoving Eddie Howe during Saturday’s dramatic draw with Leeds.
The supporter was pictured invading the Magpies’ bench during the 2-2 stalemate. He managed to reach Howe and shared some words with the ex-Bournemouth boss. He then grabbed his arm and shoved him before being dragged away by stewards.
The Newcastle backroom staff expressed their disgust at his presence in the immediate aftermath of the incident but fortunately nothing serious could occur. However, the fan has been dealt some notable consequences after being charged by the authorities.
A statement from West Yorkshire Police on Sunday morning read: “Police have charged a man with assault and entering the field of play following an incident at Elland Road football stadium during the Leeds United versus Newcastle United football match yesterday [Saturday]. The man has been bailed to appear before magistrates on 21 July.”
The police are not the only ones taking action. Leeds have already announced that the supporter has been dealt with a lifetime ban.
FA bosses are also set to intervene. Leeds have been asked to explain how the incident took place and will be charged with failing to control their own supporters.
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The club could end up being hit with a huge fine or even a partial closure of the stadium. Leeds are reviewing CCTV footage of the incident in a bid to identify which stewards were to blame - and will beef up security for the last home game of the season against Tottenham.
An FA spokesperson said: "We strongly condemn the incident involving a spectator during the Premier League fixture between Leeds United and Newcastle United.
"The behaviour of this individual is unacceptable, and we will work together with the police, the relevant authorities and the clubs to ensure the appropriate action is taken."
Newcastle boss Howe also gave his thoughts on the incident after the full-time whistle at Elland Road. He suggested that security potentially needs to be looked at once more to ensure the safety of staff, players and supporters.
Speaking to BT Sport, he said: "Yeah that was a real surprise, I’m concentrating on the game, I turn and that’s the last thing I expected to happen."
He added: "I'm not sure if he pushed me. He confronted me, he said something I can't repeat and then he was led away. Moments like that do make you think. Safety is paramount and we need to be mindful."
Away from the dramatic scenes off the pitch, the same could certainly be said on it. Both Newcastle and Leeds led at some point in the game before eventually drawing 2-2.
