Bowyer admits threatening behaviour against Dyer

Former Newcastle midfielder Lee Bowyer today admitted using threatening behaviour during an on-pitch brawl with Kieron Dyer.

The 29-year-old was charged in June last year following the brawl with then team-mate Dyer during the Premiership match with Aston Villa for which the pair received red cards.

The midfielder, having already been red-carded that season, was given a four-match ban by the Football Association, who then gave Bowyer a further three games and a £30,000.

Bowyer, who has moved to West Ham, was also fined six weeks‘ wages by the club - thought to be in the region of £200,000 – although Dyer was not fined as Bowyer was alleged to have thrown the first punch.

Nicola Reasbeck, chief crown prosecutor for Northumbria, said: ``The criminal law doesn't cease to operate once you cross the touchline of a sports field.

“Neither does being disciplined by an employer or a sport governing body make an athlete immune to the law.”

Bowyer was originally charged with causing fear or provocation of violence under Section 4 of the Public Order Act 1986.

That charge was amended today after he indicated he would plead guilty to causing harassment, alarm or distress under Section 5 of the same act.

“Most importantly the plea shows that Mr Bowyer accepts his behaviour on the pitch that day was a criminal offence,” added Reasbeck.

Bowyer will be sentenced later.