Jake Livermore informed West Brom officials that his spat with a West Ham fan at the London Stadium on Tuesday night was over a comment made by the supporter about the footballer’s son, Jake Junior, who passed away in 2014.
The incident happened just after the West Brom midfielder was substituted during their 2-1 defeat to the Hammers.
The club issued a statement on Wednesday clarifying that Livermore confronting the fan was a reaction to hearing a remark about the death of his infant son.
“In the light of intense media speculation, West Bromwich Albion would like to clarify an incident involving our player Jake Livermore in last night’s Premier League game at West Ham.
“Following his substitution in the second half, Jake was subjected to general abuse from home supporters which he shrugged off. However, he acknowledges that he moved to confront one spectator who chose to make a comment about the death of his infant son.
Club Statement on Jake Livermore…#WBAhttps://t.co/xb09QWSACN
— West Bromwich Albion (@WBA) January 3, 2018
“The Club would like to think that all right-minded football supporters could understand this reaction which did not result in any physical exchanges before Jake was led away to our dressing room.
“Jake is an outstanding young individual who has the total support of everyone at the Club and he has made it clear he considers this statement to be an end to an unhappy incident.
“Albion were very appreciative of the swift response by the officials of West Ham in dealing with this matter and are more than happy to leave any further action they deem appropriate in their hands.
“The Club has responded to an FA request to offer our observations of the incident and will not be making any further comment.
The Football Association has been in touch with the clubs and with Livermore. All parties have until 6pm on Thursday to respond.
