Police are investigating an incident at the Emirates Stadium after Everton forward Thierno Barry claimed his friends were ‘attacked’ during Arsenal’s clash with the Toffees.
Barry was named as a substitute against the Premier League leaders, coming on in the second-half in place of Beto.
But after the game the forward took to Instagram to allege his friends had been targeted, writing: ‘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.’
The post accompanied a video of fans fighting inside the Emirates Stadium.
It is not clear what caused the incident but Everton fans online alleged Barry’s friends celebrated Arsenal’s goals, despite sitting in the area reserved for away supporters.
Metropolitan Police have said they are aware of the incident and that no arrests have been made.
In a statement, Everton said: ‘Everton Football Club is aware of an incident involving supporters in the away section at Emirates Stadium and will review the circumstances surrounding it.
‘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 official X account for Merseyside Police, meanwhile, posted: ‘Aware of videos circulating online of an altercation in the away section towards the end of the #ARSEVE match.
‘We’re working with the Met Police to investigate.’
