Linesman advises City players to thanks fans
Man City players advised by linesman to thank fans for paying expensive ticket prices
A Manchester City supporter gestures wearing a t-shirt protesting the high ticket prices ahead of the English Premier League soccer match at Arsenal's Emirates Stadium in London, Sunday, Jan. 13, 2013.(AP Photo/Alastair Grant)
LONDON (AP) -- Manchester City's pampered players were given a stark reminder of the lengths supporters go to follow the team when they were advised by a match official to thank fans for spending 62 pounds ($100) to watch the Premier League win at Arsenal.
As on-field cameras rolled, linesman John Brooks told England defender Joleon Lescott "they've paid 62 quid over there — go and see them." City players were shaking hands with officials amid celebrations after a 2-0 victory on Sunday.
The increasing cost of ticket prices in the Premier League had been a major issue before the match, with City reported to have returned 900 of the club's 3,000 allocation in protest.
Arsenal charges as much as 126 pounds ($203) for a ticket to its home matches.
