Newcastle midfielder Laurent Robert could face internal disciplinary action after he confronted a Newcastle Chronicle sports reporter after this weekend’s 2-1 win over Spurs.

The former Paris-Saint Germain player reportedly had to be restrained by fellow Newcastle players Kieron Dyer and Lomana LuaLua after a skirmish in a corridor adjacent to the St James’s Park media suite.

It is understood Robert attempted to punch Alan Oliver, of the Evening Chronicle, following a heated discussion relating to recent criticism of Sir Bobby Robson’s £10m signing.

Manager Robson insisted there had been a case of mistaken identity and promised to investigate fully.

Chronicle editor Paul Robertson said: “After the Spurs game, the Chronicle’s Alan Oliver was in the press room doing his job when Laurent Robert physically attacked him. The French winger had to be pulled away by other players and journalists.

“Apparently, Robert was upset by a comment piece written in the Chronicle which, while praising him, questioned his attitude in recent weeks. That article was not even written by Oliver but by John Gibson.

“Between them, Oliver and Gibson have covered Newcastle for over 50 years through the highs and the lows. They have done their job professionally and have been criticised as well as praised for the things they write.

“But for any player to launch a physical attack on a journalist is unacceptable.

“Sir Bobby Robson and Freddy Shepherd are investigating the attack on Oliver and dealing with the matter internally – and that is where we want it to stay.”

Season ticket holder Paul added that there were things Oliver writes which he didin’t agree with but because football was a game of opinions, he respected the fact the stories were written with integrity.

Oliver has criticised Robert in the past but has also frequently lauded the Frenchman’s talent.

And the pages of the Chronicle are still open to the player to respond to criticism, according to the editor.

He said: “We are frequently highlighted as the place to turn to for the best coverage of Newcastle United and we remain committed to giving an unrivalled service.

“All the Chronicle and all its team wants is for Newcastle United to succeed. The club, just like us, is not above criticism. We would like to draw a line under the matter.”

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