Grealish has best day of life despite ‘whack’ on face as fan runs on pitch

Aston Villa captain Jack Grealish celebrated the ‘best day of his life’ after he recovered from being punched by a pitch invader to score the derby winner at Birmingham.

The 23-year-old was struck on the side of the head by a spectator in a flat cap who ran on to the field less than 10 minutes into the match before throwing a punch from behind the midfielder as he stood in the Birmingham penalty area.

The intruder, who Blues later confirmed would be banned for life from St Andrew’s, was quickly restrained by stewards as several other Villa players rushed in to confront him. He was led away by police, blowing kisses to the crowd as he left.

West Midlands police later confirmed a 27-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of encroachment on to the pitch and assault and remained in custody for questioning.

Grealish thankfully appeared unhurt and was comforted by teammates and opponents. He went on to net the only goal with a low, angled shot in the second half, leaping jubilantly in to the Villa supporters to celebrate and earning himself a yellow card.

He told Sky Sports Football: “Best day of my life. To come here, captain Aston Villa and score the winner is what dreams are made of, especially for me as a Villa fan.”

Regarding the incident with the spectator, he added: “I was just unaware at the time, I was walking into position and then just felt a whack around the side of the face.

Birmingham City issued a statement apologising to Grealish and Aston Villa while the FA “condemned” the incident and would be working to “ensure the appropriate action is taken”.

Picture: PA. Villa’s Jack Grealish celebrates his derby winner.