Billy Sharp breaks silence after attack from Nottingham Forest fan during pitch invasion

Callum Boyle

“I will not let one scumbag ruin my respect for the Forest fans.”

Sheffield United forward Billy Sharp has spoken for the first time since he was attacked by a Nottingham Forest fan during a pitch invasion on Tuesday night.

Forest fans celebrated at the City Ground as they reached the play-off final and a first trip to Wembley Stadium in 30 years after a 3-2 penalty shoot-out win against the Blades, in which goalkeeper Brice Samba saved two spot-kicks.

A fan assaulted Sharp on the pitch after Forest’s shoot-out win.

The victory sparked wild scenes in the East Midlands as fans ran on the pitch to celebrate, however it was marred by one supporter who was spotted attacking Sharp, leaving the ex-Forest striker requiring stitches as a result.

Absolutely disgraceful footage of a Forest fan headbutting Billy Sharp during the pitch invasion tonight. Sickening. pic.twitter.com/vGAdAGeiHh

— FootballJOE (@FootballJOE) May 17, 2022

Nottinghamshire Police have since confirmed that a 31-year-old man had been arrested on suspicion of assault and is currently in custody, waiting to be questioned.

Forest themselves have also released a statement in which they said that the fan would be banned from the club for life.

Nottingham Forest said the fan would be banned from the club for lifehttps://t.co/9jwUOLiQXA

— FootballJOE (@FootballJOE) May 18, 2022

Billy Sharp issued a classy response to the incident

Sharp, who had a spell on loan at Forest during the 2012-13 season, broke his silence on Wednesday morning and issued a classy statement. The striker said that the actions of one supporter would not change his view on his former club.

In a message on Twitter, he said: “Congratulations to Nottingham Forest on their victory and good luck in the final. As an ex Forest player, I will not let one scumbag ruin my respect for the Forest fans.

“Incredibly proud to be captain of this group of Sheffield United players, they gave their all and can hold their heads up high. We will be back and go again. Thanks for all your messages and support after the incident.”