Nottingham Forest’s dramatic penalty shootout win against Sheffield United in the Championship playoff semi-final was marred by a headbutt on Sheffield United captain Billy Sharp by a Forest fan following a pitch invasion.  

Sharp required stitches after he was left with a bloody lip, and it was later reported that a  31-year-old man was arrested in connection to the incident. Nottingham Forest confirmed via an official statement that the club are working with authorities and that the fan would be handed a lifetime ban from attending matches.

According to a video doing the rounds on Twitter, an unsuspecting Sharp can be seen standing on the sidelines, as a bald man ran toward him and headbutted the 36-year-old in the face. Sharp instantly collapses from the impact. 

A former Nottingham Forest player himself, Sharp has now taken to social media to address the situation and send a positive message despite the ordeal.

“One mindless idiot ruined what was an unbelievable night of football. 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.” read the Englishman’s statement.