Arsenal have confirmed they are investigating alleged “discriminatory and violent” behaviour by their supporters during Wednesday night’s 2-0 defeat to Tottenham Hotspur. Officials are looking into claims that a man was removed from the Emirates Stadium after making hissing noises directed at the away fans, which are considered antisemitic references.
The club stated: “We are aware of the alleged incident and are currently investigating. We do not tolerate any anti-social, discriminatory or violent behaviour at Arsenal Football Club. Anyone identified will receive a lengthy club ban and their details will be passed to the police to commence legal proceedings.”
Separately, Arsenal have identified a suspect after a plastic bottle was thrown at Tottenham’s Dele Alli in the 73rd minute. Alli, who had just scored Spurs’ second goal, was taking a throw-in when the bottle struck him on the head. The 22-year-old was unhurt and responded by making a 2-0 gesture to the home fans. After the match, Alli said: “It is what it is – it made the goal a bit sweeter and the win.”
Spurs manager Mauricio Pochettino praised Alli’s reaction. “In another country the player was going to be down on the pitch. Dele behaved really well – Arsenal should be grateful to him because the player could have gone down and created a massive problem.”
Arsenal said they have “been embarrassed by the incident” and that “behaviour of this type has no place at Emirates Stadium”. The club is liaising with the Metropolitan Police and promised a lengthy ban and legal action for anyone identified. Former Arsenal striker Ian Wright condemned the fan, saying: “Whatever the club is doing they should fine that person, ban them, ban them for life. We don’t want that attached to our club.”
