Steven Gerrard has claimed Aston Villa goalkeeper Robin Olsen was attacked by Manchester City fans during the pitch invasion that followed the final day of the Premier League.
Ilkay Gundogan scored twice as City came back from two goals down to secure the title, ahead of Gerrard’s old club Liverpool, sparking wild scenes of celebration at the Etihad Stadium.
However, during the full-time pitch invasion, the Villa boss alleged that fans had injured goalkeeper Olsen.
He told reporters: “We're going to see how he is now, but I think you should ask Pep [Guardiola] and Man City those questions.”
City followed up the allegation with a statement apologising to the club and player.
It read: “Manchester City would like to sincerely apologise to Aston Villa goalkeeper Robin Olsen, who was assaulted after the final whistle at today’s match when fans entered the pitch.
“The Club has launched an immediate investigation and once identified, the individual responsible will be issued with an indefinite stadium ban.”
Asked about the incident in post-match press conference, City boss Guardiola said: “I’m so sorry on behalf of the club to Olsen and Aston Villa.
“I don’t think there were intentions, but the emotions of people there, it’s always difficult to understand why people respond in that way and cannot celebrate themselves and not do these kind of things. Hopefully we can discover who the person was and he’ll be punished.
“I don’t know how (to stop it). You cannot put 1,000 guards to control all the people there. We are so sorry. It’s the bad news of today.”
A number of incidents have marred clubs’ triumphs in the final month of the season.
Crystal Palace boss Patrick Vieira was taunted by Everton fans in midweek before lashing out at one supporter.
A Nottingham Forest fan was jailed for assaulting Billy Sharp after Sheffield United’s Championship semi-final defeat at the City Ground. Luton manager Nathan Jones also complained of abuse after Huddersfield beat the Hatters in the other semi.
In League Two, Swindon players were left with injuries after a penalty shootout defeat to Port Vale.
