Ravel Morrison defends former Sheffield United teammate Oli McBurnie and insists arrested striker is victim of verbal abuse after Jack Grealish tells fans ‘footballers are human too’

Ravel Morrison has leapt to the defence of Oli McBurnie who was arrested for his involvement in an altercation with a man on the street.

A video that emerged on the weekend appeared to show the Sheffield United striker knocking a phone out of a man’s hand in Knaresborough, Yorkshire, before hitting and kicking him.

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The Scotland international has since been arrested in connection to the incident.

A North Yorkshire Police spokeswoman said: “A 24-year-old man from Knaresborough has been arrested in connection with an incident, which involved another man being assaulted.

“The 21-year-old victim sustained facial injuries during the incident, which happened shortly before 8.30pm on Saturday 8 May on High Street, Knaresborough.

“The 24-year-old arrested man remains in custody at this time.

“Anyone who witnessed the incident is asked to contact police.”

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New video footage has since been posted on social media documenting McBurnie being taunted before the bust-up.

Morrison, who played with McBurnie at Sheffield United last season, tweeted his thoughts on the incident, pointing out the player was outnumbered and defending himself.

"Oli McBurnie is alone and there’s a group of lads abusing him, he sticks up for himself, why’s he in the wrong?

“If you ain’t ready for a reaction, keep it moving and keep your mouth closed!!”

Morrison's comments echoed those of Aston Villa captain Jack Grealish, who had earlier condemned the man who recorded the video.

He said: “I just don’t get why some people do this nowadays and why they thinks it’s okay to just shout abuse at footballers whilst their out with family and friends.

“Footballers are human as well.”

Warning: The video below contains explicit language