Villa star faces police probe

Jan 22 2007 By James Cartledge, Birmingham Mail

VILLA star Lee Hendrie is facing a police investigation into claims he told a one-legged football fan: "Get out of your wheelchair."

The former England midfielder allegedly insulted Manchester United supporter Andy Wild during a touchline bust-up at Old Trafford during a match earlier this month.

Greater Manchester Police confirmed a complaint had been made and the force was investigating, although it was not clear whether Hendrie had been interviewed by officers.

An Aston Villa spokesman said: "Lee Hendrie denies these allegations."

Mr Wild, of Sale, Greater Manchester, said the alleged comment was made after Hendrie, a substitute during the game on January 13, was goaded by United fans near the disabled area as he warmed up.

"Hendrie reacted and shouted insults back," he said. "I called out to him: 'You're a professional footballer, you should be able to rise above it.'

"That's when he told me to get out of my wheelchair. I was too shocked to say anything else but if I could have got out of my wheelchair, I would.

"I decided to contact the police because disabled fans should not be mistreated."

Insp Peter Yates, of Greater Manchester Police, said the investigation was still in its early stages.

"Inquiries are ongoing," he said. "A complaint has been made and we are investigating."

The investigation is the latest lowpoint in a season of frustration for 29-year-old Hendrie, who has made just one Villa appearance under new manager Martin O'Neill and was farmed out on loan to Championship side Stoke City.

He has been linked with a permanent move away from the club before the current transfer window closes at the end of the month.

He was also previously involved in a row with a section of Villa fans during a pre-season friendly at Walsall in 2003.