Vincent Kompany: 'Fans are not animals'

By Joe Fish, Reporter | 14 December 2012

Manchester City captain Vincent Kompany does not want to see netting introduced at English stadiums as a way of protecting the players from violent fans.

Manchester City captain Vincent Kompany has insisted that netting is not required in English stadiums to prevent acts of fan violence.

During City's derby defeat to United last week, Rio Ferdinand was struck by a coin, while Wayne Rooney was also the target of objects thrown from the home crowd.

Kompany has stressed that he would like to see the perpetrators punished, but does not feel that netting is needed to further protect the players.

"I hope actions will be taken but let's not forget where football has come from and how far it has come," Kompany said.

"I would definitely say we need action on prevention but keep treating fans as human beings and not animals that have to be behind cages. I do think we should take action against these incidents and I have heard a lot of suggestions about putting up nets and everything.

"But the fact we are able to put people outside of cages is something that makes the English game so much more special."

Nine people have been charged following the incidents at the Etihad Stadium, which also included two men entering the pitch and attempting to attack Ferdinand at the final whistle.