Arsenal have vowed to hold their own inquiry into the coin-throwing incident that marred their fourth round FA Cup victory over Liverpool on Sunday and said the perpetrator would be banned from their ground for life. Today's newspapers also reported that Liverpool's Jamie Carragher, who was sent-off 20 minutes from time after throwing a coin back into the crowd, could face legal action after a fan was hit.
Arsenal beat the holders 1-0 in a hard-fought encounter marred by red cards for the home side's Martin Keown and Dennis Bergkamp, as well as the Liverpool defender. The Guardian said police had confirmed they received a complaint about the incident and had taken statements from fans. The paper also said Arsenal could face an FA fine over the incident.
The Sun said the police were ready to join the FA in examining Carragher's particular offence. Arsenal said what happened was unacceptable and they were appealing for help in identifying those responsible for throwing the objects on the pitch. "The club believe this is an isolated incident as our supporters are usually very well behaved," said an Arsenal statement. It continued: "However, we are carrying out a full investigation into the matter as this kind of behaviour is wholly unacceptable and needs to be eradicated from the game. When the perpetrator is positively identified, he or she will be banned from Arsenal for life."
Carragher, meanwhile, has apologised for his part in the incident, after receiving criticism for his reaction from assistant manager Phil Thompson. "No matter what the physical or verbal provocation, I shouldn't have reacted like that...I was frustrated and did it without thinking in the heat of the moment. Everyone who has seen me play regularly will realise that it was completely out of character, but I'm not trying to make excuses. It was wrong and, as a professional footballer, I should have known better. It's a mistake that I won't make again."
Filed by Shane Murray
