Newcastle pledge to support young fan 'hit by police baton'

Newcastle have urged the father of a young boy who was reported to have been hit by police after Thursday's Europa League match at Benfica to make a formal complaint to police.

The Premier League club have issued a statement in which they pledge to help as much as they can.

Newcastle said on their website last night: "The club were made aware last night (Thursday) by fans leaving the Estadio da Luz of reports that a young Newcastle United fan had been struck by a police baton during the holdback after the game.

"Whilst club stewards and officials were inside the ground, none witnessed the alleged incident. Club officials made Northumbria Police, who were working with local police, aware of the reported incident last night.

"The club would strongly encourage the father of the young fan to make a formal complaint to the Portuguese police - which can be done via Northumbria Police - so that the incident may be investigated.

"Newcastle United will assist with any investigation."