United goalkeeper questioned by police

Manchester United goalkeeper Fabien Barthez was questioned by police investigating an alleged incident in which he threw or kicked a bottle which hit a Leeds United fan, the club confirmed today.

The alleged incident took place at Leeds United’s Elland Road ground on September 14 during a match which was already under intense scrutiny due to the return of England defender Rio Ferdinand after his £30m (€47m) move between the two clubs.

Leeds United fan Colin Richmond is suing Barthez over the incident in which he claims he was hit in the face by the plastic water bottle as he watched the game in the disabled supporters section.

Barthez was interviewed at a police station in Leeds yesterday.

West Yorkshire Police said: “We can confirm a 31-year-old man attended a Leeds police station yesterday where he was arrested and interviewed in connection with an allegation of an assault on a man on September 14 at Leeds United Football Ground.

“He has been bailed pending further inquiries.”

A spokeswoman for Manchester United said: “We can confirm that Fabien Barthez has been questioned as part of an ongoing investigation and it is in the hands of the police.”