Sunderland defender Luke O'Nien was seemingly struck by a Portsmouth supporter during Thursday's League One play-off semi-final second leg at Fratton Park.
The incident occurred after O'Nien fell over advertising hoardings and into the crowd. The fan was later removed from the stadium by stewards.
Speaking after the game, O'Nien downplayed the incident.
It's happened and it's very silly. I've seen my little cousin hit harder than that, so not a problem with that.
The referee and players both intervened, with Lee Cattermole exchanging words with the fan in question. Police asked did he want to press charges and the player declined.
Footballers shouldn’t have to deal with this. Shambles. https://t.co/5DYcUirOjH
— DAVID JONES (@DavidJonesSky) May 16, 2019
Sunderland manager Jack Ross labelled the fan "an idiot" but added that it "shouldn't spoil it or tarnish that fan group."
The game finished 0-0, allowing Sunderland to progress on an aggregate scoreline of 1-0.
