The Tottenham Hotspur fan who kicked Arsenal goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale has been arrested, according to reports.
The incident, which took place after the fierce derby match between the two North London rivals, happened when Arsenal come out on top at the home ground of Tottenham Hotspur. The final whistle saw some unsavoury but expected activity with both sets of players arguing, as well as fans having a go at each other and the players.
The most problematic thing to happen was a Tottenham Hotspur fan kicking Arsenal goalie Ramsdale before running off into the stands. The incident was immediately picked up by Spurs and condemned, while they began investigations into what happened.
According to reports, the results of the investigation have landed the now named fan in police custody.
Joseph Watts, age 35, was arrested and charged on Tuesday with “assault by beating, going on to an area adjacent to a playing area and throwing a missile on to a football playing area,” reports Sky Sports. Watts is due to appear at Highbury Magistrates’ Court on February 17, 2023, to answer to the charges.
Watts scaled the advertising boards to kick Ramsdale who was having a go at the Spurs fans behind his goal, which was followed by a little altercation with Brazilian forward Richarlison.
The Arsenal goalkeeper said of the incident: “The Spurs fans gave me some throughout the game. I was giving some back. The people I did give it to greeted it in sportsmanlike terms, but one fan tried to give me a little punch on the back.
“It is a shame as it is just a game of football at the end of the day. Both sets of players tried to bring me away, but thankfully nothing too drastic happened. It is a sour taste, but I’m sure we will enjoy it when we go back into the dressing room.”
Watts now faces a lifetime ban from the stadium thanks to his antics which were caught on camera by the club. Spurs made this known when they condemned Watts’ actions in a statement after the match.
“We are appalled by the behaviour of a supporter that attempted to attack Arsenal goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale at the end of today’s match. Violence in any form has no place in football,” the statement read.
“The Club has reviewed its CCTV footage to identify the supporter and will be working with the Met Police, Arsenal and Aaron Ramsdale to take the strongest possible action, including an immediate ban from Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.”
