Police have arrested a man after a footballer was assaulted on the pitch at the end of last night's Nottingham Forest versus Sheffield United Championship semi-final second leg play-off match.

Television cameras captured the moment Sheffield United captain Billy Sharp was felled by a supporter after the full-time whistle when a number of fans took to the pitch to celebrate Forest's penalty shoot-out victory which booked them a place in the play-off final.

An investigation was quickly launched following the incident at the City Ground and Nottinghamshire Police is continuing to liaise with both clubs as enquiries continue.

Chief Inspector Paul Hennessy, of Nottinghamshire Police, said: "A 31-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of assault in connection with this incident. He remains in custody and will be questioned by officers.

"Our enquiries into the circumstances surrounding the incident are ongoing. We have spoken to the player concerned and we are working with both clubs who are supporting us with our investigation."

Police had issued a statement prior to the match urging fans to enjoy the match safely.

Nottingham Forest published the following statement on the club's official website in the immediate aftermath of the incident: 

"Nottingham Forest Football Club are appalled to learn that our former player, Billy Sharp, was assaulted leaving the pitch after tonight's match at The City Ground.

"The Club will work with the authorities to locate the individual in order they are held to account for their actions, which will include a life ban from Nottingham Forest.

"The Club would also like to apologise to Billy personally and to Sheffield United Football Club."