Man United fan “deeply ashamed” as he’s fined and banned for tragedy chanting in clash vs. Liverpool | OneFootball

A Manchester United fan told a court that he was very ashamed of his actions after he was caught taking part in tragedy chanting and performing vile gestures aimed at Liverpool supporters when the two sides met on 17 March in the quarter-final of the FA Cup.

United won the tie 4-3 during a pulsating tie at Old Trafford.

However, the win was somewhat stained by some incidents of tragedy chanting.

The BBC reports that Michael Avery, 45, pleaded guilty to a public order offence when he appeared at Manchester and Salford Magistrates’ Court on Monday morning.

Avery, a construction industry worker, was caught mocking Liverpool fans by way of offensive gestures related to the Hillsborough and Heysel stadium disasters.

Footage of the individual went viral on social media and understandably caused upset within the fanbases of both United and Liverpool.

When he appeared in court, Avery said he was ashamed of what he did as he pleaded with fellow United supporters to learn from his example.

He told Manchester Magistrates’ Court, “I just want to reiterate that I’m just deeply sorry and I really regret what I did.”

“I’m ashamed and embarrassed. Everyone that knows me has obviously felt this as well.

Avery further stated, “It’s just a difficult situation. I wish it never would have happened. I regret it terribly.”

“I hope other people look on what’s happened to me and think twice before they do anything at football games.”

He was handed a £800 fine and a three-year football banning order. The man was also ordered to pay a £320 victim surcharge and £85 prosecution costs after he admitted to the offence.

In addition to this, the United fan was instructed to surrender his passport when certain games were being played outside of the UK.

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