Football fan charged with pushing Manchester United defender Chris Smalling at Emirates

Manchester United’s Chris Smalling applauds the fans after the Premier League match at the Emirates Stadium

A football supporter has been charged with pushing Manchester United defender Chris Smalling during a match against Arsenal.

Gary Cooper, 30, of Chertsey, Surrey, is accused of common assault and going on to the playing area at Emirates Stadium on Sunday.

It is claimed he ran on to the pitch and shoved Smalling in the side as Arsenal celebrated their second goal.

Following United's 2-0 defeat, Chris Smalling tweeted, saying "Commenting would only add to the attention he craved."

Mr Cooper was charged on Monday and bailed to appear at Highbury Corner Magistrates’ Court on March 26.

He added: "Disappointed with yesterday’s result but we’ll learn from it. Looking ahead. Have a good start to the week everyone!"