Man charged with assault and entering playing area after Billy Sharp 'headbutted'

A 30-year-old man has pleaded guilty to assault occasioning actual bodily harm after attacking Sheffield United captain Billy Sharp, while a separate charge of illegally entering the pitch was dropped

A man has pleaded guilty after assaulting Sheffield United captain Billy Sharp following Tuesday's play-off semi-final loss to Nottingham Forest.

Robert Biggs, 30, of Ilkeston, Derbyshire, pleaded guilty at Nottingham Magistrates' Court to occasioning actual bodily harm, Nottinghamshire Police said. Following a pitch invasion, Sharp was knocked to the ground near the touchline at Nottingham Forest's City Ground at the end of the Championship play-off semi-final.

An extensive police investigation was quickly launched following the incident which left the player, who previously played for Forest, requiring medical treatment. Meanwhile, Biggs was told as he appeared in court in custody that a separate charge of illegally entering the playing surface had been dropped.

Assistant Chief Constable Rob Griffin, of Nottinghamshire Police, had said previously: "I am pleased we have now charged a suspect in connection with this assault. This is a result of hard work done throughout the night and today involving numerous police departments.

"We continue to work closely with both football clubs who are supporting our investigation following this incident.

"Cases such as this will hopefully serve as a deterrent to anyone thinking of getting involved in violent disorder at football matches. Incidents are treated extremely seriously by the force and football clubs and people involved will be held to account."

Biggs was kept in custody before appearing at Nottingham Magistrates' Court on Thursday. He did not oppose an application for a football banning order during the hearing.

The Blades were beaten on penalties at the City Ground in the Championship play-off semi-final which sparked wild celebrations. As the players surrounded hero goalkeeper Brice Samba - who made three saves - fans invaded the pitch from every stand.

Footage showed one fan running straight at Sharp as the striker stood at the side of the pitch, before headbutting him with extreme force. It left the 36-year-old needing stitches.