Patrick Vieira said football players, coaches, and staff must be safe at stadiums after an encounter with a fan at Goodison Park during a pitch invasion last week.
After Dominic Calvert-Lewin scored the game-winning goal in the 85th minute of Everton’s 3-2 victory over Palace, which ensured the club’s continued participation in the Premier League, Everton supporters stormed the playing surface.
As Vieira was making his way towards the opposing team’s locker room following the game’s final whistle, he was challenged by a fan. Patrick Vieira looked to be provoked by the fan, as he then booted the fan to the ground, and other fans were required to lead him away.
Vieira told reporters following Crystal Palace’s 1-0 victory over Manchester United on Sunday that he believes the event involving Everton is more significant than that one incident.
“When the situation is examined in the context of the Premier League, there were many field invasions that have the potential to create problems.
“You have no idea what might take place. We prioritize safety in the workplace, whether we serve as a coach, manager, player, or staff member.
“I believe that the Football Association (also known as the FA) and the Premier League are going to have to deal with a significant problem. Everyone involved needs to step up and accept responsibility, as well as consider what the most effective preventative measures are.”
The FA has stated that it is looking into cases in which fans have invaded the playing field.
On Sunday, Manchester City supporters invaded the field of play to celebrate their team’s triumph of the Premier League title. Aston Villa goalie Robin Olsen was injured during the melee.
On Thursday, a football supporter from Nottingham Forest was sentenced to 24 weeks in prison and given a 10-year ban from match venues. The fan was responsible for head-butting Billy Sharp, captain of Sheffield United, during an invasion of the pitch.
