Aaron Ramsdale, the goalkeeper for Arsenal, had to deal with a challenging conclusion to the North London derby against Tottenham Hotspur with his and a Spurs fan video viral
Before being booted by a supporter, Ramsdale was first shoved by Spurs forward Richarlison.
The north London derby was full of heated moments
Aaron Ramsdale kicked by Spurs fan during NLD derby, video goes viral
Aaron Ramsdale, the goalkeeper for Arsenal, did his utmost to maintain a spotless record as the Gunners defeated Tottenham Hotspur by a score of 2-0. However, a fan tried to kick Arsenalโs goalie late in the game, which led to remarkable circumstances. When the fan attempted to kick Ramsdale, he was already hiding behind the goalpost with his water bottle. The Spurs forward Richarlison, whose actions have also drawn criticism, assaulted the Arsenal goalie just a few seconds earlier.
After the final whistle on Sunday, tempers began to rise, and security personnel as well as players from both teams had to step in. Tottenham committed to taking the “strongest possible measures” after the fan’s actions were criticised by many on social media.
Statement from Spurs
In a statement regarding the fan’s attempted kick, Spurs stated: “We are horrified by the actions of a fan who made an effort to assault Aaron Ramsdale, the goalie for Arsenal, after today’s game. Football is not a place for violence of any kind.”
The team will cooperate with the Met Police, Arsenal, and Aaron Ramsdale to take the strongest possible action, including an immediate suspension from Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, after reviewing its CCTV footage to identify the supporter.
Ramsdale made several vital saves to help Arsenal earn their first away league victory against their neighbourhood rivals since 2014 and extend their lead atop the Premier League standings to eight points. After celebrating in front of the crowd behind his goal at full time, the England international engaged Richarlison in conversation. The fan then leapt onto the side advertising boards of the field and kicked out at Ramsdale.
Here is the clip:
Lifetime ban imminent for Spurs fan who kicks Aaron Ramsdale. Stupidity of the highest order. Not great from Richarlison either. pic.twitter.com/gHf8H9nUif
— Ryan Taylor (@RyanTaylorSport) January 15, 2023
What Ramsdale had to say?
Ramsdale said to Sky Sports, “The Spurs fans gave me some during the game. I was returning some. The folks I gave it to responded to it in a sportsmanlike manner, but one supporter attempted to punch me in the back.”
The Professional Footballers Association (PFA) advocated for stricter measures to be implemented against aggressive fans, saying that such incidents occur “far too frequently.”