Police probe Bellamy incident at Manchester derby

Police are probing a clash between Manchester City footballer Craig Bellamy and a fan at City’s weekend derby with Manchester United, a spokesman said Monday.

The confrontation happened after the man ran onto the pitch in the dying seconds of the match, which saw Manchester United win 4-3 with a last-minute goal.

“At the end of the derby between Manchester United and Manchester City at Old Trafford, a member of the public ran on to the pitch, and was detained by police and security staff,” said a spokesman for Greater Manchester Police.

“During this time, there was an altercation between the man and a player from Manchester City FC. No formal complaint has been made by either party but police are continuing to make inquiries.”

City boss Mark Hughes said it was “not acceptable” for the fan to invade the playing area.

“I seem to recall Brian Clough (ex Nottingham Forest manager) clipping someone around the ear and he was lauded as a national hero,” said Hughes. “Maybe it will be the same case with Craig — but I doubt it.

“I’m sure people will make a nuisance about it, but the guy should not have been on the pitch. That is not acceptable.”