Coin-throwing thug banned from matches

Daniel Watts, 23, was among a gang of Manchester City fans who pelted Manchester United fans and police officers at the end of a derby clash in April.

One of the policemen on duty at the City of Manchester Stadium was hit in the eye and surgeons were unable to save his full sight.

Watts was later identified as one of the troublemakers who targeted the United supporters as they left the ground on April 17.

During his interview Watts admitted throwing coins but denied he had been responsible for the injury to the officer, police said.

The defendant, of Bramhall Moor Lane, admitted one count of affray and was yesterday sentenced at Manchester Crown Court to three months in jail, suspended for 12 months.

He was also ordered to carry out 100 hours' community service, placed on a three-month curfew and banned from attending football matches for four years.

Police Supt Jim Liggett said: "Watts purports to be a football supporter but he clearly has other motives for attending games and now, thanks to his banning order, he won't be attending any matches at all."