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Luke O'Nien 'assault' during Portsmouth-Sunderland game investigated by police

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Sunderland's Luke O'Nien was attacked by a fan during their League One play-off semi-final against Portsmouth

Hampshire Police have launched an investigation into an alleged assault by a supporter against Sunderland's Luke O'Nien on Thursday.

The midfielder was playing for his side against Portsmouth at Fratton Park in the Sky Bet League One play-off semi-final second leg when he fell into the crowd.

O'Nien appeared to be struck more than once by the supporter, who was sat in the home section of the stadium.

Luke O'Nien
Image: O'Nien has made 50 appearances for Sunderland since signing from Wycombe at the beginning of the season

A statement released by Hampshire Police on Friday read: "We can confirm we are investigating an assault against a Sunderland player at the Portsmouth v Sunderland football game at Fratton Park last night (Thursday, May 16). No-one has been arrested at this time."

O'Nien confirmed after the game that he had been struck by the supporter, but said he told police he did not want to press charges.

"I went over the board and he had a few digs at me, but that's football and it's fine," O'Nien said.

"Police asked if I wanted to press charges, but that's just football. When the whistle goes it's just two teams going at it and two crowds going at it - that's just part of it.

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"There was a little bit of contact, but it was what it was. He didn't hurt me in the end."

Several Sunderland players had angry confrontations with Portsmouth supporters during the incident, and the fan in question appeared to attempt to enter the pitch.

The game ended 0-0, which meant Sunderland qualified for the final with a 1-0 victory on aggregate.

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