A Manchester United fan has been given a three-year football banning order and a £120 fine after he admitted to slapping Manchester City player Jack Grealish.
The assault took place at Old Trafford on April 6, following the Manchester derby.
Alfie Holt, 20, pleaded guilty to a single count of assault at Manchester Magistrates’ Court.
He claimed he “reacted” after Grealish insulted him during a verbal exchange.
However, Grealish stated in a witness statement that he could not hear what Holt was shouting and was struck as he walked away.
The court, which was shown a video of the incident, also ordered Holt to pay an additional £133 in costs and surcharges.
Holt’s lawyer noted that the fan’s 12-year season ticket had already been revoked, which was a “significant punishment.” The court stressed the need to protect players from such conduct.
