Police arrest Tanjong Pagar U-21 footballer who punched Albirex Niigata opponent

SINGAPORE: A Tanjong Pagar United player who allegedly threw punches at an Albirex Niigata opponent following a Singapore Premier League Under-21 game on Monday (Feb 10) has been arrested.

In response to queries from CNA, the Singapore Police Force (SPF) said on Tuesday it received a call for assistance at 21 Jurong East Street 31 at about 9.40pm.

"A 20-year-old man was conveyed conscious to the hospital. A 19-year-old man was subsequently arrested for public nuisance and is also being investigated for voluntarily causing hurt," said the police, adding that investigations are ongoing.

In videos circulating online, the Tanjong Pagar player sprints from the touchline of Jurong East Stadium to land a blow on an Albirex player's face. The Tanjong Pagar player has to be held back by his team-mates as the Albirex player lies on the ground.

In response to queries from CNA, the Football Association of Singapore said on Tuesday it was notified of the incident, which resulted in one player being sent to the hospital. The player was discharged on Tuesday morning.

In a statement on Facebook, Tanjong Pagar United said it is aware of the incident and that it would like to "sincerely apologise" to Albirex Niigata, their players, and fans for the incident.

"The actions displayed by our player do not reflect the values and standards of our club. We do not condone violence and unsportsmanlike behaviour," said the club.

"The player was reprimanded for misconduct and further disciplinary actions would be taken against him."

Albirex Niigata declined to comment on the incident.