Sheffield United duo charged with common assault after playoff row

London, June 23, 2022 (AFP) - Sheffield United players Rhian Brewster and Oli McBurnie were charged with common assault on Thursday after a police investigation into the violence that marred their side's Championship play-off defeat at Nottingham Forest.

United lost 3-2 on penalties against Forest after a tense play-off semi-final ended 3-3 on aggregate at the City Ground on May 17.

Forst fans invaded the pitch in celebration, sparking clashes with United players, with skipper Billy Sharp assaulted in an incident that saw a man later charged.

Brewster and McBurnie were also allegedly involved in skirmishes with Forest supporters.

"Sheffield United Football Club is disappointed to learn that Rhian Brewster and Oli McBurnie have been charged following the incidents that took place at the EFL Championship play-off semi-final second leg against Nottingham Forest last month," a statement said.

"Both players voluntarily engaged in interviews with Nottinghamshire Police in the aftermath of the fixture which saw their team-mate, Billy Sharp, the victim of assault in the chaos which followed the final whistle.

"Brewster and McBurnie strenuously deny the charges brought against them."

Brewster and McBurnie are due to appear at Nottingham Magistrates' Court on July 28.