EFL release statement after Billy Sharp incident at Nottingham Forest game

The English Football League (EFL) have condemned the "unsavoury and unacceptable incidents" taking place at football stadiums.

In a strongly-worded statement, the EFL reminded supporters of the safety threat that pitch invasions can have, as well as reiterating that it is a criminal offence to enter the playing surface at any time, and consequences include bans as well as a criminal record.

The statement comes after Sheffield United captain - and former Reds striker - Billy Sharp was allegedly "assaulted" by a Nottingham Forest fan after the second-leg of the Championship play-off semi-final clash at the City Ground, a tie settled in Forest's favour after a penalty shoot-out. Nottinghamshire Police have said a man was arrested “after a footballer was assaulted on the pitch” at the end of Tuesday night’s game.

An investigation has been launched, and Chief Inspector Paul Hennessy of Nottinghamshire Police said: "A 31-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of assault in connection with this incident. He remains in custody and will be questioned by officers.

"Our enquiries into the circumstances surrounding the incident are ongoing. We have spoken to the player concerned and we are working with both clubs who are supporting us with our investigation."

The EFL have since issued a statement addressing a "number of unsavoury and unacceptable incidents take place with supporters entering the field of play".

The statement says: "Unfortunately, at recent end-of season and play-off semi-final fixtures we have witnessed a number of unsavoury and unacceptable incidents take place with supporters entering the field of play.

"These are currently under investigation by the relevant authorities, and the EFL condemns in the