'We have all been embarrassed by the individual who threw a bottle'
Thursday 20 December 2018 18:02, UK
Arsenal have identified an image of the fan who "embarrassed" the club by throwing a bottle at Dele Alli during their defeat to Tottenham.
The club have been studying CCTV footage and are working with the Metropolitan Police to apprehend the culprit.
An Arsenal statement said: "We have all been embarrassed by the individual who threw a bottle at Dele Alli.
"We are not responsible for the actions of one individual, but send our apologies to Dele Alli and everyone at Tottenham Hotspur for this incident.
"We do not tolerate any anti-social, discriminatory or violent behaviour at Arsenal Football Club. Anyone identified will receive a lengthy club ban and their details will be passed to the police to commence legal proceedings."
Arsenal are unlikely to be punished by the Football Association for the incident, Sky Sports News understands.
It is understood the FA will support any criminal proceedings brought against the thrower and will push for a banning order.
However, as it is one individual at fault rather than more widespread disorder involving a number of fans, it is usual procedure for the FA in these circumstances to offer support to the investigation, rather than seek to punish the club.
Speaking to Sky Sports after Tottenham's 2-0 Carabao Cup quarter-final victory on Wednesday, Alli appeared unfazed by the incident, saying it made his goal "sweeter".
On Twitter after the game, Alli posted an image of him gesturing the scoreline to the home fans.
Tottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino, who has been linked with taking over at Manchester United on a permanent basis at the end of the season, called on Arsenal to find the culprit.
"It was lucky that it wasn't a big issue," the Argentine said. "For me, okay we play a derby and we hate each other in a good way but that is in a bad way when you go to damage some people or an opponent.
"I cannot talk in general because only one stupid person made a mistake. I respect the Arsenal fans, like I respect the professionals from Arsenal and I respect our fans.
"For one you cannot talk about everyone. I hope that Arsenal take responsibility and through the camera they can identify because it wasn't a problem but it can happen to be a big problem."
The Metropolitan Police revealed to Sky Sports News on Wednesday night that seven arrests were made at the game for public order offences.
Tottenham will play Chelsea in the Carabao Cup semi-final, with Manchester City facing Sky Bet League One side Burton Albion in the other tie.
