Europa League: Patrice Evra charged by UEFA over fan attack

Marseille fullback Patrice Evra has been charged with violent conduct by the European football governing body UEFA for apparently attacking a fan ahead of Thursday's Europa League match with Vitoria Guimaraes in Portugal.

UEFA said Friday disciplinary proceedings had been opened against the 36-year-old and he would be suspended for at least one match. His case is to be heard November 10.

Evra, named as a substitute for the match, was given a red card after being involved in a pre-game brawl.

Pictures on social media appeared to show him kicking a Marseille fan as part of a mass altercation.

The Ligue 1 club said in a statement it would carry out its own investigation into the incident. It condemned the "pseudo supporter who insults his own players" but also said that "a professional player must keep cool in the face of provocations and insults as hard and unjustified as they are."

Marseille are also being investigated for field invasion by supporters, setting off of fireworks and acts of damages. Vitoria also face investigation for field invasion.

The former Manchester United star has been regularly targeted by Marseille fans since joining from Juventus during the close season and his poor performances have led coach Rudi Garcia to drop him from the starting line-up.