Liverpool region soccer star dropped over Man United taunt

Source: Click Liverpool

by Tony McConville. Published Fri 16 Jan 2009 11:11

A Liverpool City Region amateur footballer who appeared to mock the Munich air disaster during a game in Manchester has had his contract cancelled by his club, it has emerged.

John Lawless, a midfielder for Marine FC, allegedly made an aeroplane motion with his arms while taking a corner during a match against FC United in December 2008.

Marine FC, which has its ground in Crosby has terminated the player's contract folowing the incident.

A statement on the team's website this week said that Lawless had left the club, adding that "his contract has been cancelled by agreement of both parties'".

The 1958 Munich air crash left 23 people dead, including eight Manchester United players.

Former Manchester United footballer and Munich survivor Albert Scanlon described Lawless as a "complete idiot''.

Mr Scanlon suffered from a fractured skull and a broken arm and leg in the crash. The 73-year-old said: "`He was probably trying to have a go at the fans but it backfired on him.

"Most people still remember Munich in the right way, but you still get one or two idiots that try and get attention.''

FC United was formed in 2005 by Manchester United fans opposed to Malcolm Glazer's takeover at Old Trafford. Mr Scanlon added: "FC United are still United supporters. The man's a complete idiot.''

It is understood that a second Marine FC player, Shaun Tuck, was also warned by police for making a similar gesture during the match at Gigg Lane in Bury, Greater Manchester.