Aston Villa step up security after ref attack

Aston Villa and police are stepping up security for tomorrow's Uefa Cup clash with Ajax after the attack on referee's assistant Phil Sharp during Saturday's Barclays Premier League clash at Villa Park.

Sharp was cut after being struck by a coin thrown from behind the dugouts during the closing stages of the goalless draw.

He needed treatment before being able to finish the game with a large plaster on his forehead.

Villa have pledged to ban the culprit for life once his identify is discovered and police are approaching season ticket-holders situated in that area of the ground to help them with their search.

But in the meantime extra police and cameras will be in place to try to ensure there is no repeat for the visit of Marco Van Basten's side for the opening group game in the competition.

Villa spokesman Steve Tudgay said: "There will be a small additional police presence in the area by the dugouts in the light of Saturday's events.

"There will also be additional camera surveillance of that area of the ground - by the club and by the police.

"We repeat our stance that we strongly condemn what happened on Saturday and if the person is identified, they will be banned for life from Villa Park."

Villa skipper Martin Laursen hopes the actions of one person do not tarnish Villa's reputation in the game as a club who have encountered few crowd problems.

The Danish international said: "One idiot shouldn't ruin it for the reputation of the Aston Villa fans. I don't know who he is but he could have been anyone.

"Who says he was an Aston Villa fan? And why should he ruin it for everyone? It was just a stupid thing to do and I am sure he regrets it."