A Manchester City fan who was arrested over claims he performed a monkey gesture towards Manchester United's Fred has said he's not racist and that he was 'putting my hands in my pants'.
The man has been identified as 41-year-old Anthony Burke in an exclusive Daily Mail report.
The Army veteran reportedly took to Facebook last night and stated:
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"Listen, I'm only racist c*** because I had a screen shot that made me look it.
"However I ain't racist, watch the match half of it was me with me putting my hands in my pants."
He added: "Bullsh** not ar*** I know the true and I've already made appointment to speak to the police which I did so think what you like.'
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Daily Mail have also been told by his ex-partner that Burke was arrested on Sunday morning.
Greater Manchester Police have confirmed that a man has been remanded in custody but have not disclosed his identity.
The woman, who was identified as Amy from Wythenshawe said:
"He is with the police - he has been arrested.
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"He was arrested this morning. He doesn't live with me. It's horrible - I have had death threats and my kids.
"I have been in tears. I am really surprised - this is not like him - his family are black. I keep watching the footage back and I can't say whether he's done it or not. Has he done it or hasn't he done it?
'I just can't say and I haven't spoken to him.' 'It's amazing how you can get famous for the wrong thing.'
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United players were also pelted with objects at the Etihad Stadium and Fred was struck with a lighter.
The Brazilian and teammate Jesse Lingard protested to referee Anthony Taylor and initially refused to go over and take a corner.
Some City players had to go to the corner and urge their fans to stop the appalling behavior.
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The Premier League champions addressed the situation following the game in an official statement and said:
"Manchester City FC are aware of a video circulating on social media which appears to show a supporter making racial gestures during the second half of the match against Manchester United this evening.
"Officials from the Club are working with Greater Manchester Police in order to help them identify any individuals concerned and assist with their enquiries.
"The Club are also working with GMP regarding an instance of objects being thrown onto the field of play. The Club operates a zero tolerance policy regarding discrimination of any kind, and anyone found guilty of racial abuse will be banned from the club for life."
Featured Image Credit: PATopics: Manchester City, Football News, Football, Manchester United, Fred
