Arsenal goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale was despicably kicked by a Tottenham Hotspur supporter at full time in Sunday's North London derby victory.
The England shot-stopper made a number of crucial saves as the Gunners moved eight points clear at the top of the Premier League table with a 2-0 success against their bitter rivals.
Hugo Lloris's own goal and Martin Odegaard's stunning strike did the damage in the first half, but Ramsdale earned his wages with an exemplary showing on the Tottenham turf.
However, ugly scenes overshadowed Arsenal's win at full time, when Ramsdale wound up the Tottenham fans behind his goal with a few gestures, which Richarlison did not take kindly to.
The Brazilian squared up to Ramsdale before stewards intervened, and the Arsenal number one headed off the pitch to collect his water bottle, being followed by teammates and security personnel in the process.
Lifetime ban imminent for Spurs fan who kicks Aaron Ramsdale. Stupidity of the highest order. Not great from Richarlison either. pic.twitter.com/gHf8H9nUif
— Ryan Taylor (@RyanTaylorSport) January 15, 2023
While being targeted verbally by several Tottenham fans, one supporter stepped onto the advertising board and managed to kick Ramsdale in the back before quickly scampering away up the stands.
Ramsdale and Granit Xhaka had to be held back from confronting the fan as players and staff from both sides became involved, but Mikel Arteta quickly led his team away from the commotion to celebrate with the travelling fans.
Speaking to Sky Sports News after the game, Ramsdale admitted that the incident with the fan left a sour taste in the mouth, saying: "The Spurs fans gave me some throughout the game.
"I was giving some back. The people I did give it to greeted it in sportsmanlike terms but one fan tried to give me a little punch on the back.
"It is a shame as it is just a game of football at the end of the day. Both sets of players tried to bring me away but thankfully nothing too drastic happened. It is a sour taste but I'm sure we will enjoy it when we go back into the dressing room."
Arsenal's next contest sees them welcome Manchester United to the Emirates next weekend, while Spurs face another daunting challenge away to Manchester City on Thursday.
Ben Knapton
