Following the Eddie Howe incident at Newcastle United, a Leeds United fan was sentenced to prison.

A Leeds United supporter who attacked Eddie Howe, the head coach of Newcastle United, following their 2-2 draw at Elland Road in May has been sentenced to prison.

On Friday, September 8, Leeds Magistrates Court handed down a 12-week prison term and a six-year football ban to David Derbyshire, 35, of Marley Street in Beeston.

At a hearing on July 21, Derbyshire admitted admission to charges of unlawfully invading the field of play at a sanctioned football game and assaulting Newcastle manager Eddie Howe in the 93rd minute of the game played at Elland Road on May 13.

The fan approached Howe in his technical area, got into a verbal argument with him, and then shoved the Newcastle manager in the shoulder. The event was live-broadcast on BT Sport.

Leeds United swiftly issued a lifetime ban to Derbyshire and had him arrested. The Football Association also brought charges against the West Yorkshire club for failing to guarantee that its fans behaved properly.

Howe reflected on the event, saying: “It’s such an odd thing, because you’re focused on the game. I was approached by him, and he muttered something that I can’t repeat before being escorted away.

“I’m good. Such circumstances do cause you to reflect. My top priority is the staff’s and the players’ safety. We must exercise caution. Security is really crucial.

“I’m not sure if I had time to feel afraid. It makes you consider the fact that nobody should ever experience those kinds of circumstances. Nobody should ever feel as though their personal safety has been compromised.

“[What was said] hit extremely close to home for me. Football is where you’re used to it.

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Criminal behavior of this kind is completely unacceptable, particularly when club staff or players are targeted during a large-scale sporting event like this,” said Chief Superintendent Richard Close, who oversaw the policing effort at the game.

“I am confident that sports fans would join us in denouncing anyone who behaves in such a manner, regardless of their club loyalty.

“We will always take incidents like this seriously, and we work closely with visiting clubs and Leeds United to fully investigate any offenses and take decisive action against those responsible, including seeking football banning orders against them.”