Aston Villa midfielder Jack Grealish was attacked by a spectator who ran on to the pitch in the Championship match at rivals Birmingham City on Sunday, ONA reports citing BBC.
It happened in the 10th minute when a man wearing a cap came on to the pitch from the home section before swinging his arm towards Grealish's face.
The man, who was wearing a Birmingham City jacket, blew kisses towards the crowd as he was led away by stewards.
West Midlands Police said a man has been arrested following the incident.
A 27-year-old man is being questioned on suspicion of encroachment onto the pitch and assault, the force said.
"An attack on a player is completely unacceptable and outrageous," said match commander, Supt Nick Rowe.
"The vast majority of people were well behaved but unfortunately the occasion has been marred by this."
Villa captain Grealish sat on the St Andrew's turf before being helped up by players from both teams and was able to continue.
The visitors went on to win 1-0, Grealish scoring the winner in the 67th minute.
The Football Association said it "strongly condemned the incident", adding that it would be "working with the police, the relevant authorities and the club to ensure the appropriate action is taken".
The EFL added: "It's a situation no player should ever be faced with.
"Those playing in the game must be able to do so safe in the knowledge they will not be subjected to this type of behaviour.
"While this incident falls within the remit of the Football Association, we will work with all the relevant parties to address the issue of player and match officials' safety on the pitch and ensure the appropriate action is taken."
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