Man charged over '˜attack' on Dundee United chief Stephen Thompson

A MAN has been charged by police following an alleged assault on Dundee United chairman Stephen Thompson moments after Wednesday night's Betfred Cup derby at Dens Park.

The Dundee United chairman was allegedly attacked after last night's game. Picture: SNS

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It’s understood Mr Thompson was bundled to the floor as he made his way from the directors’ box to the Dundee boardroom.

He was unhurt but left shaken, as were several members of his family, including his young son, who witnessed the incident.

A number of directors of both clubs were also nearby and Mr Thompson was quickly ushered into the boardroom and police alerted.

It’s understood the alleged culprit was a guest in one of the sponsors’ lounges at Dens and may have been trying to take an uninvited selfie with the Tangerines’ owner when troubled flared.

Police, who were on the scene in seconds, took a number of statements and were also in attendance at the hospitality lounges a few yards away from the boardroom.

In a brief statement issued today, they confirmed an incident had taken place and action taken.

“Police Scotland can confirm that a 24-year-old man was charged with assaulting a 51-year-old man at Dens Park, Dundee, immediately after the Betfred Cup match between Dundee and Dundee United. The victim was not injured,” said a spokesman.

Dundee officials were quick to apologise to Mr Thompson and his family last night.

The incident is very much out of character in Dundee versus United clashes, with the city derby being generally regarded as the friendliest of Scotland’s derby encounters.