Eric Dier climbed into the crowd at the Tottenham Stadium because he feared for the safety of his younger brother – and the England star accepts he could now be punished for acting in defence of his family.

The FA have launched a probe into the England star's angry confrontation with a fan and asked for his version of the flashpoint.

A source close to the Spurs defender said he went to the aid of Patrick, 22, after seeing him in confrontation with the supporter and felt he had “no choice” but to step in.

The source added: "He accepts he is going to get punished".

Patrick had challenged the supporter in the West Stand near the dugout for aiming “vitriolic abuse” at his brother following Tottenham's FA Cup defeat on penalties to Norwich.

Dier saw the altercation and vaulted the advertising hoardings and 10 rows of seats to get to the aid of his brother.

The fan quickly left the scene and there was no physical confrontation before Dier was led away by security.

Patrick, who works in new media, later joined his brother in the Tottenham changing room.

Dier is understood to be philosophical about any potential FA charge and ban following his return to regular football after needing to be rushed to hospital for emergency surgery to remove his appendix in December 2018.

Senior figures at the North London club are seeking action against the 26-year-old but Jose Mourinho said immediately after the match that he does not want Dier punished.

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