Patrick Vieira was involved in an altercation with an Everton fan during a pitch invasion at Goodison Park as Everton escaped relegation.
Patrick Vieira, manager of Crystal Palace, got involved in an argument with a fan following a pitch invasion at Goodison Park as Everton avoided relegation.
The Toffees rallied from a 2-0 deficit to defeat Crystal Palace 3-2 and clinch Premier League membership in spectacular manner.
Cameras showed a fan mocking Vieira as fans surged onto the pitch to celebrate after the final whistle.
The former Arsenal and France player then seemed to kick a fan before being escorted away by other fans.
When asked about the event, Vieira stated, “I have nothing to say about it.”
Frank Lampard also added: “I feel for Patrick. I didn’t get him at the end. I would have said, ‘come in with us’ – although he might not have wanted that.
Lampard has faced criticism this season as Everton faced relegation from the Premier League for the first time in club history.
And they were on the verge of being pulled into a last-day battle at the foot of the table until three second-half goals salvaged the day.
“It was pure elation of fans who came on the pitch after avoiding relegation,” Lampard said of the pitch invasion. Allow them to stay on the field and have their moment if done correctly. No problem as long as they behave.”
The incident with Vieira occurred on the same night as Swindon players clashed with Port Vale fans following the second leg of their League Two semi-final play-off match.
After Sheffield United’s Championship play-off semi-final loss to Nottingham Forest on Tuesday, a fan ran onto the pitch and headbutted Sheffield United’s Billy Sharp.
