has opened up about taking a step back from the beautiful game after he was headbutted by an angry fan. The shocking incident unfolded at the Emirates Stadium last year after a clash between the Gunners and , Keane's former club. , a 43-year-old dad-of-two, today received a football banning order after he was .
Law claimed he was "terrified" of Keane and disputed the former midfielder's version of events during a trial, arguing that the Sky Sports pundit's behaviour on September 3 last year did not reflect someone who felt threatened. He also alleged Keane had "struck him in the abdomen" while being held back by Sky colleague Micah Richards, who jumped in to protect Keane. However, District Judge Angus Hamilton dismissed this claim, stating "no other person saw this happen and there's no evidence of this happening".
During a hearing at Highbury Corner Magistrates' Court on Thursday morning, he concluded: "This assault didn't occur...
I conclude that he is being untruthful and he didn't behave in the manner alleged," reports . The judge added that any past incidents that created Keane's reputation as a "hardman" of football were "years ago and confined to the football pitch". The court also heard from Keane about the impact of the attack, who said he suffered bruising on his chest and arms, and "stepped back from football to reflect on what happened".
Keane recounted to the court how he was "absolutely not expecting" the attack while he and Richards were on their way to delive.
