PIERS MORGAN leads the support for Patrick Vieira after the Frenchman kicked an Everton pitch invader last night.
A supporter filmed himself launching a foul-mouthed tirade at the Crystal Palace boss following the Toffees’ 3-2 win.
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After being sworn at, Vieira turned and grabbed the fan’s arm, before launching a kick that floored him.
The ugly incident is the latest in a series of them – on Tuesday Sheffield United’s Billy Sharp was headbutted by a crazed fan and elsewhere last night Swindon players were attacked by Port Vale fans.
While the FA have launched an investigation, many fans have pleaded with them NOT to punish Vieira.
In a Sun poll a whopping 85 per cent of football fans backed the Arsenal legend over the incident.
Gunners fan Piers Morgan wrote last night: “The moron deserved it. Why should players/managers put up with this vile abuse?”
Adding further thoughts this morning, the Sun columnist added: “1) The little scumbag obviously said something highly abusive to
@OfficialVieira & got exactly what he deserved.
“2) Where the hell were the police/security??
“3) You’d want Vieira with you in a fight.”
Stig Abell added: “I think the only possible response to that Vieira video is to say that he is as hard as nails, and the fans around him are morons.”
While Alastair Campbell wrote: “Just seen the Vieira incident. 100pc on his side. Why should football managers and players have to take that kind of harassment and abuse as they leave the pitch?”
One Palace fan commented: “I love Patrick Vieira even more that he doesn’t stand like Nigel at the bus stop when provoked by fans on the pitch.
“Our club needs to stand 100 per cent behind him & fight all criticism & any charges.”
While another added: “Don’t blame Vieira at all why do fans think they can do s*** like that?”
A Twitter user claimed: “If Patrick Vieira gets any sort of fine or suspension for that then it’s a disgrace.”
After the match, the 45-year-old refused to be drawn on the incident, responding to a question: “I do not have anything to say about that.”
Everton boss Frank Lampard added: “I feel for Patrick and I didn’t get him (to shake hands) at the end because of the reaction.
“He ran across the pitch 80 yards in front of our fans but there’s no issue.
“Just pure elation from our fans at staying in the league.”
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