LA Galaxy coach Bruce Arena has revealed his disappointment at the actions of some of the club's supporters.
Arena responds to Beckham abuse
Los Angeles Galaxy coach Bruce Arena has revealed his disappointment at the actions of some of the club's supporters at Sunday's friendly against AC Milan.
Certain sections of the home support used the occasion as an ideal opportunity to vent their anger at former club captain David Beckham.
Still frustrated at the England international's actions over the winter, in which he extended a loan deal at Milan until the end of the European season, the experienced midfielder came in for abuse throughout the contest at The Home Depot Centre.
Understandably unhappy with some of the abuse aimed in his direction, Beckham approached a group of supporters at the interval and had to be restrained by security staff as he attempted to jump an advertising hoarding.
Arena admits those fans in question, as well as those that entered the field of play, were out of order and insists the club will be doing all they can to ensure a similar situation does not arise in the future.
"We regret the incident that happened at the end of the first half of last night's friendly at The Home Depot Centre," read a statement released by the former United States coach.
Opinions
"While it is important that our fans remain free to voice their opinions, they must do so in an appropriate manner.
"We appreciate our players and fans passion for the team and the game, but we all must aim to hold ourselves to higher standards.
"We have a very good relationship with the LA Riot Squad (the group of supporters in question) and have already reached out to them to set up a meeting to discuss moving forward together in a positive direction.
"In addition, the LA Riot Squad has informed us that they have issued a lifetime ban to the fan that went onto the field of play.
"We want to move in a positive direction as an organisation, and ask our fans to support our players and our club as we look to return to the play-offs for the first time in three years.
"We need the support of our fans to continue providing an amazing home environment at The Home Depot Centre as we look to reach our shared goal of qualifying for the play-offs."
