The footballing authorities need to widen the scope of discussions in response to recent pitch invasions if they really want to control the unacceptable behaviour of fans (Authorities searching for solutions after pitch invasions cause disquiet, 20 May). The answer to this problem lies in large part with the clubs and their players.
For several seasons we have witnessed players indulging in a series of increasingly histrionic acts when their team has scored a goal: sliding on their knees across the pitch, kicking corner flags and – worst of all – jumping over barriers to embrace their exulting fans. Equally deplorable are the responses of coaching staff and subs who encroach the pitch to join in this triumphalism. If fans resort to irresponsible and violent behaviour, they are doing little more than following the lead provided by their idols.
If the FA, the English Football League and the Premier League are serious about introducing corrective measures, they must insist on players behaving more maturely. If they resort to their customary antics when a goal is scored, they should be penalised with a yellow card at the very least; non-playing staff who invade the pitch should be sent to the dressing room. And if that doesn’t quell the problem, referees should be authorised to disallow the goal.
Graham Downie
Studley, Warwickshire
If fans’ behaviour is not about football but about society (Jonathan Wilson, 20 May), ought Patrick Vieira’s attack on a fan to be seen in this way? With a government intent on stoking up them-and-us feelings, and a prime minister as a role model of how to manage his workplace, it is hard not to conclude this.
Stephen Wood
London