Everton fan who struck Lyon goalkeeper Anthony Lopes while holding his three-year-old son speaks out

An Everton fan who hit an opposition player while holding his young child has admitted he is ashamed of himself.

The supporter was captured on camera getting involved in a pitch-side brawl between Everton and Lyon players during their Europa League clash on Thursday.

He struck Lyon goalkeeper Anthony Lopes on the head, an action which he claims he now regrets and about which he has spoken to Merseyside Police.

The fan, speaking to the Sunday People and staying anonymous, said: ‘I was out of the police station inside half an hour with my solicitor, but I’m ashamed of what I’ve done. I already know. I’m not a f***ing d***head.’

Everton have banned him for life after the attack, and he admits he is now worried he will lose access to his child because of what he did.

However he also blamed the players for starting the fighting, and the club for leaving a security gate open at the front of the stands.

He said: ‘I put myself and my son in a dangerous position by taking my eye off the ball and getting carried forward with other fans.

‘Before I knew it I was through the gate, which should have been shut. Everton should have provided adequate security.

‘I knew I’d put myself in that dangerous position. It was not intentional but I’d been too concentrated on screaming abuse at the players for being sh**, and before I knew it I was led down there – then it was like, “F***ing hell, what’s going on?” and it looks the way it looks.’

He confirmed he would not be appealing against Everton banning him, while Merseyside Police’s enquiries are ongoing.