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Manchester derby fan charged for racist behaviour toward Fred

A man was charged by the Greater Manchester Police (GMP) on Tuesday for alleged racist behaviour during the Premier League derby between Manchester City and Manchester United at the Etihad Stadium in December.

Television images circulating on social media showed a City fan making a gesture in front of United's Brazilian midfielder Fred during the game, which the visitors won 2-1, leading to his arrest by the police.

"Anthony Burke of Panfield Road, Wythenshawe has been charged with a Racially Aggravated Section 5 Public Order Act," GMP said in a statement.

Burke, 41, is set to appear at Salford and Manchester Magistrates Court on April 15.

Manchester United player Jesse Lingard also reported that he was racially abused during the match and informed officials about it at full-time of the game.

United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer admitted after the game the incident in the 67th minute had "affected" both his players.

"I've seen it on the video, it was Jesse and Fred and the fella must be ashamed of himself," said Solskjaer. "It's unacceptable and I hope he will not be watching any football anymore.

"It affected both Fred and Jesse, you'll see the video if you want to, but sometimes you feel sorry for these people, I'm sure they will feel sorry for them."

Information from Reuters was used in this story.

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