Striker charged by police after kicking pyrotechnic into stand
LEIGH Griffiths has been charged over an incident where he allegedly kicked a smoke bomb at fans during a match.
The Dundee striker admitted kicking the pyrotechnic away during the Betfred Cup match as the Dark Blues took on St Johnstone at Dens Park on Wednesday night.
The on-loan Celtic star issued an apology yesterday for his actions, saying he had been trying to clear the blue firework from the pitch.
Police Scotland yesterday said they had charged the player in connection with the drama, which was filmed.
A spokesperson said: “Police Scotland can confirm that a 31-year-old man has been charged in relation to culpable and reckless conduct following an incident at Dens Park, Dundee, on Wednesday, September 22.
“A report will be submitted to the Procurator Fiscal.”
Griffiths left the Hoops to go on loan with the Tayside club last month.
The Scotland striker said: “It was regrettable that the pyrotechnic ended up back in the stand as my intention was just to remove it from the pitch. Having just lost a goal, I was eager to get the match restarted as quickly as possible and I would like to apologise for any distress caused by this action.”
Wednesday’s flashpoint, coming after St Johnstone’s opening goal in a 2-0 win, was caught on camera and SFA chiefs say they are aware of the incident.
Dundee issued a statement following the “regrettable incident”, which came as Griffiths was facing a barrage of abuse from the Saints fans.
The newly-promoted club added: “Dundee Football Club and Leigh Griffiths would like to address a regrettable incident which occurred during last night’s Premier Sports Cup tie with St Johnstone at the Kilmac Stadium.
“Following the opening goal, a smoke generator, among other items, was thrown on to the park by the visiting supporters.
“This pyrotechnic ended up back in the stand as Leigh kicked it to remove it from the field of play.”
Griffiths had previously played for the Dark Blues in the 2009/2010 season.