Sheffield United star Billy Sharp was left bloodied after he was attacked by a fan following the Championship play-off second leg at Nottingham Forest.
Forest won that second leg on penalties, with fans rushing the field after seeing their side seal their spot at Wembley for the final.
Sheffield United manager Paul Heckingbottom said after the match that Sharp was injured during the pitch invasion as the Blades player was left bloodied.
Heckingbottom condemns 'assault'
“It’s assault," Heckingbottom said. "We’ve seen one of our players attacked.
"He’s shook up, bleeding, angry. It’ll be dealt with.”
What happened & what has Sharp said?
As Forest fans rushed the pitch, Sharp, a former Forest player himself, was seen on the sideline in the moments following his side's loss.
While standing still, Sharp was tackled by an onrushing supporter, who seemed to lower his shoulder into the Blades star.
Sharp crashed to the ground as the fan ran away.
The 36-year-old has taken to social media to address the incident, writing on Twitter: "One mindless idiot ruined what was an unbelievable night of football. Congratulations to Nottingham Forest on their victory and good luck in the final.
"As an ex-Forest player I will not let one scumbag ruin my respect for the Forest fans. Incredibly proud to be captain of this group of Sheffield United players, they gave their all and can hold their heads up high. We will be back and go again. Thanks for all your messages and support after the incident. Billy."
Forest statement
"Nottingham Forest Football Club are appalled to learn that our former player, Billy Sharp, was assaulted leaving the pitch after tonight’s match at The City Ground," the club said in a statement.
"The Club will work with the authorities to locate the individual in order they are held to account for their actions, which will include a life ban from Nottingham Forest.
"The Club would also like to apologise to Billy personally and to Sheffield United Football Club."
Police arrest man for assault
Nottinghamshire Police have confirmed that they have arrested a man on suspicion of assault and are launching a full investigation into the incident at the City Ground.
Paul Hennessy, the Chief Inspector of Nottinghamshire Police, has said in a statement: "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.”
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