Four-year football ban for fan who kicked goalkeeper in North London derby

A Tottenham supporter has been banned from football for four years for kicking Arsenal goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale after the North London derby on 15 January 2023.

Joseph Watts, 35, from Hackney, admitted at Uxbridge Magistrates’ Court he assaulted Mr Ramsdale after seeing “red mist” when the goalkeeper went to collect his belongings after the match.

He also admitted yelling abuse and throwing coins onto the pitch at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

Watts cannot see a football match live for four years . He is also banned from being in the vicinity of football matches where Tottenham Hotspur play, including Wembley Stadium, for four hours before and after games.

Watts also has to surrender his passport during international tournaments and as required by police.

Watts was given a 12-month community order for common assault and must undertake 100 hours of unpaid work. He was also ordered to pay Mr Ramsdale £100 in compensation and pay £85 costs.

Kevin Christie, District Crown Prosecutor and football lead for North London, said: “The North London derby is a passionate match between two rivals but fans should never get too caught up in the emotion and cross the line into criminal behaviour.

“Watts was captured on live television kicking the Arsenal goalkeeper after letting his temper boil over as his side lost. The result of his actions means that he can longer see his team play live.”

The CPS continues to play a crucial role in tackling these crimes and making our national game inclusive, and safe to watch and play in.