Arsenal’s Aaron Ramsdale confirms altercation with Spurs fan after derby win

LONDON—Arsenal goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale says he was attacked by fans after his side won 2-0 in a fiery North London derby with Tottenham Hotspur in the Premier League on Sunday.

Ramsdale was man-of-the-match as he kept Tottenham at bay time and time again and also clashed with several Spurs players during the match.

Spurs’ Brazilian forward Richarlison had an altercation with Ramsdale after the final whistle, before a Tottenham supporter appeared to climb the billboard and kick the 24-year-old.

“The Spurs fans gave us some during the game,” Ramsdale told Sky Sports. “I gave a few back. People I gave to greet in a sporting way but one fan tried to give me a little punch in the back.

“It’s a shame because it’s just a game of football at the end of the day. Both players tried to get me, but nothing too drastic. It’s bittersweet, but I’m sure we’ll go back to the dressing room.

The Metropolitan Police said investigations are ongoing and no arrests have been made.

The English Football Association said it “strongly condemns” incidents of “unacceptable behaviour”, while the Professional Footballers’ Association added that it happened too often.

“Players have the right to be safe in their workplace,” the PFA said in a statement. “When players are attacked, we expect legislation to protect players to do the right thing.

“As the players’ union, we consider this a priority issue. We will continue to work with the authorities to demand that players and staff are better protected in their workplaces.

Spurs promised to act in a statement released shortly after the match.

“The club has reviewed CCTV footage to identify the supporter and will work with the Met Police, Arsenal and Aaron Ramsdale to take the strongest possible action, including an outright ban from the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium,” Tottenham said.

Spurs coach Antonio Conte said he did not see what happened to Ramsdale.

“In every moment you have to respect it,” he said. “If we want to be respected, we have to respect it. If that happens, I will not be happy.”

Arsenal produced a masterclass to overcome shock Tottenham and widen the gap at the top of the Premier League to eight points over champions Manchester City in second place, with Ramsdale playing a key role.

“The manager also said that in the last few North London derbies we didn’t keep clean sheets, so that’s a bit of a push,” he said.

“We deserved a two-goal lead and maybe more.”

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