An Everton star has claimed his friends were ‘attacked’ by Everton supporters during the Toffees’ 2-0 defeat to Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium on Saturday, with police now investigating the incident
Police are investigating an incident at the Emirates after Everton striker Thierno Barry claimed his friends were “attacked” during Saturday’s defeat to Arsenal.
The Frenchman, who entered the match in the 69th minute as a substitute for Beto, shared footage on social media of what he alleged was his friends being targeted. He stated that his friends were removed by security personnel and police “because of fears of retaliation from our supporters”.
The Metropolitan Police confirmed no injuries were reported, no arrests have been made and they are collaborating with both clubs to identify those involved, whilst Merseyside Police confirmed they were also participating in the investigation.
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Everton had frustrated the Premier League leaders until the dying moments on Saturday evening. Viktor Gyokeres opened the scoring in the 89th minute before Max Dowman netted a second deep into stoppage time.
Barry posted on Instagram: “This kind of behaviour is not acceptable in a stadium. I bring my friends to enjoy a game, and it gets ruined by a few silly people.
“Football should be a place where everyone feels safe and respected. This type of attitude has no place in the game and is simply not tolerated in football.
“My friends and the people who were attacked had to be escorted by the Arsenal club’s security staff as well as the police because of fears of retaliation from our supporters.”
A spokesperson for the Met stated: “Officers and stewards responded to the incident. No serious injuries were reported. Enquiries are ongoing and we are working with both clubs to identify those involved. There have been no arrests.”
Everton confirmed they are aware of the incident, stating: “Violent or disorderly behaviour is completely unacceptable and has no place in football.
“It does not reflect the passionate and loyal support Everton receives both home and away. The club will work with the relevant authorities to establish the facts and take any appropriate action.”
The Toffees currently occupy eighth position but remain in the hunt for European football with eight matches left to play.
Barry, who transferred to the club in a £27million deal from Villarreal last summer, is their joint top scorer this season, having scored six times.