Leeds fan jailed for attacking Newcastle manager Eddie Howe on pitch
A Leeds United fan who invaded the pitch and assaulted Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe during a match between the two teams has been jailed.
David Derbyshire, 35, was at Elland Road to watch the match when he left his seat and made his way to the Newcastle dug-out in May this year.
Once there he began to argue with Howe before pushing him in the arm.
Derbyshire was grabbed by security staff and removed from the ground before being arrested.
Advert
The incident was broadcast on live TV, with thousands seeing the injury attack on BT Sport.
Speaking to police after his arrest Derbyshire said: "I went on the pitch, I went on the pitch, I am a d**k."
In an interview with BT Sport after the match, Howe said: "That was a real surprise. I was concentrating on the game. It was the last thing you think could happen."
"I can't repeat what he said but it makes you think 'what if?'.
"It was personal to me. I can't remember if he pushed me or not, it was such a strange thing to happen. Moments like that make you think."
Derbyshire pleaded guilty to charges of entering the playing area at a designated football match without lawful excuse and common assault on 21 July.
Appearing at Leeds Magistrates’ Court, he was jailed for 12 weeks and was also given a six-year football banning order.
Derbyshire had previously been given a life-time ban from the Leeds United stadium over the incident.
Speaking after the assault, Howe said: “He confronted me, said something that I can't repeat and was then led away.
"I'm OK. Moments like that do make you think about the safety of staff and players is paramount for me at any matches in the Premier League and Football League. We need to be mindful, security is so important.
"I don't know if I had time to be fearful because it was over in a flash but it certainly makes you think 'what if' and I think it is moments like this that should make people look and analyse how we can improve safety for staff and players.
"No one should have to face that, playing a sport we love and trying to entertain the country, no one should feel like their own personal safety is violated. It is something for us to reflect on."
Claire Reid