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Sep. 21st, 2009 09:29 am![[identity profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/openid.png)
Police to investigate Craig Bellamy's run-in with fan at Manchester derby
Police have confirmed that they are to investigate an incident in which Craig Bellamy confronted a fan on the Old Trafford pitch following Manchester City's 4-3 defeat to Manchester United yesterday.Bellamy approached the man, who had staged a solo pitch invasion, and shoved him in the face before the fan was then led away by stewards.
"At the end of the derby between Manchester United and Manchester City at Old Trafford, a member of the public ran on to the pitch, and was detained by police and security staff," a spokesman for Greater Manchester Police said. "During this time, there was an altercation between the man and a player from Manchester City FC.
"No formal complaint has been made by either party but police are continuing to make inquiries."
Following his side's defeat, the Manchester City manager, Mark Hughes, said it was "not acceptable" for the fan to invade the playing area.
"I seem to recall Brian Clough clipping someone around the ear, and he was lauded as a national hero," said Hughes. "Maybe it will be the same case with Craig – but I doubt it.
"I'm sure people will make a nuisance about it, but the guy should not have been on the pitch. That is not acceptable."
Greater Manchester Police will also investigate a coin-throwing attack on the City substitute Javier Garrido, who was struck as he headed down the tunnel at half-time.
The missile was launched from the home section of the crowd as Garrido walked alongside the probable intended target, Carlos Tevez, who was jeered throughout by United fans following his transfer across the city during the summer.
Police said there were no reports of any widespread disorder between fans at either the ground or in the city centre.
Twelve people were arrested at the ground for a variety of public order offences and a further 10 were arrested in the city.
A total of 51 supporters were ejected from Old Trafford during the game
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