Chris Brunt on referee abuse charge as FA fast-track pitch invasion investigation

CHRIS BRUNT has been charged by the FA over his behaviour in the tunnel following the explosive cup derby, as the governing body fast-track their investigation into crowd trouble at the fixture.

Chris Brunt has been charged by the FAPA

Chris Brunt has been charged by the FA

The Northern Irishman, who was the acting West Brom captain, is alleged to have used abusive and/or insulting words towards referee Anthony Taylor, who sent off Albion’s Claudio Yacob and Aston Villa’s Jack Grealish.

Brunt has until Thursday to respond but is likely to plead mitigation after escaping some ugly scenes at Villa Park. 

The FA are awaiting a safety report expected today and, while still talking to both clubs, they want to take quick, decisive action following the events that marred the sport. 

Villa are expecting a fine for failure to control their supporters after several invaded the pitch when Scott Sinclair made it 2-0, and dozens ran on in added time before thousands stormed the Villa Park pitch at the final whistle. 

Footage emerged yesterday of West Brom goalkeeper Boaz Myhill and winger Callum McManaman being abused by Villa fans as they struggled to leave the pitch. 

But West Brom could also be punished after Albion supporters threw seats at rival fans towards the end. Seventeen people were arrested over various incidents. 

Three have been charged. It is understood that the authorities are investigating the more serious incidents at the game rather than mere over-exuberance, focusing on the behaviour of the seat throwers and pitch invaders that left West Brom players fearful of their safety. 

Aston Villa 2-0 West Brom - Villa Fans Invade Pitch

“We have contacted both Aston Villa and West Bromwich Albion to request their observations in relation to the disturbing crowd incidents,” the FA said in a statement.

“As well as liaising with both clubs, we are working closely with West Midlands Police. 

“All available video footage will be studied by the relevant parties to identify anyone who has committed a disorder offence inside the stadium and ensure they face the appropriate punishment.” 

We have contacted both Aston Villa and West Bromwich Albion to request their observations in relation to the disturbing crowd incident

FA Statement

Both Villa and West Brom have acknowledged the statement, with Albion announcing they will be looking to “identify any supporters guilty of disorder”. 

Fans of both clubs have united in condemning the 5.30pm kick-off, which took place to suit television coverage – the match was shown live on BBC1. 

“The timing was pretty stupid,” said Matt Turvey, editor of astonvillalife.com.

“I’m not overly sure about the rationale but 12.30pm would have been ideal. 

Aston Villa facing FA inquiry over pitch invasions

“You’re getting people drinking from 9.30am and turning up at Villa Park at 5.30pm – it’s a pretty obvious result.” 

West Brom Official Supporters’ Club chairman Alan Cleverley said: “I spoke to the police four weeks ago and warned them it was going to happen. 

“The game should never have kicked off at the time it did.” Villa’s win was their second of the week over Albion and goalkeeper Shay Given hailed new boss Tim Sherwood’s man-management skills as being as good as those of the late Sir Bobby Robson. 

“I know Tim from our Blackburn days,” said Given. “We were players together and he was a leader then. 

“He captained Blackburn to the Premier League title, and he’s very much the same. He’s so positive on the training ground, so positive in the stadium and the players are responding to that. 

“Bobby Robson was one of the best man-managers I have ever worked with. He knew how to get the best out of players – and that is one of Tim’s biggest traits too.”

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