Lancashire Police have opened an investigation into an allegation of spitting against Burnley midfielder Hannibal Mejbri.
Mejbri, 22, who joined Burnley from Manchester United in 2024, was introduced 83 minutes into his side’s 2-0 win against Leeds United on Saturday.
Then, after the fixture, allegations emerged claiming that he had spat with Lancashire Police now “establishing the facts” around the complaint, as reported by The Athletic.
According to BBC Sport’s Adam Pope, it is alleged that the 22-year-old spat towards a Leeds fan. Pope later reported that the Football Association are “reviewing the incident”.
Hannibal Mejbri of Burnley (Credit:Getty)
Hannibal Mejbri of Burnley (Credit:Getty)
A statement from the force read: “Lancashire Police are aware of an alleged incident involving a Burnley player during the second half of the Premier League game between Burnley and Leeds United at Turf Moor yesterday (October 18). We are currently working with Burnley Football Club to establish the facts.”
According to the IFAB Laws of the Game, which the FA enforce, spitting at an opponent or any person is classed as violent conduct. As per West Yorkshire Police's website, "spitting at a person deliberately will constitute an offence of assault. However, if it is accidental, it will not usually be deemed to be an offence".
Meanwhile, former Premier League referee Mark Clattenburg believes, if Mejbri is found to have deliberately spat, he could face at least a three-game suspension.
“The Football Association will interview players, fans and study available video before making any charges," Clattenburg told Leeds News.
“If charged, Hannibal could receive a suspension which the Football Association will determine, and I think will be at least three matches.”
Burnley’s victory against Leeds, thanks to strikes from Lesley Ugochukwu and Loum Tchaouna, moved Scott Parker’s side out of the relegation zone into 18th while Leeds are 15th with eight points from as many games.
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