John Lydon has responded to allegations of his involvement in a racist assault by saying his accuser is a liar and in need of the publicity. In a carefully worded statement, Lydon said: "I feel very sorry for a man that needs to lie about what was a perfect evening." In Lydon's version of events, the Sex Pistols singer claims that, "trouble was brought us, resulting in those causing the trouble being physically removed by festival security". He added: "If they need publicity so badly this is the allegation universe they run into."
Referring to his alter-ego in the third person, Lydon says: "After the show John Rotten and management remained behind to sign autographs, which we did for four solid hours without incident and had a great time talking to other Spanish bands, this seems to have sparked jealousy in certain bands."
His only reference to accusations that Kele Okereke was the victim of a racially motivated assault is to say: "We are in the middle of a wonderful tour, after 30 years we are achieving a true unity in our audience. They are multi-varied, all ages, all races, creeds and colours. When you are at a festival with bands who are jealous fools, lies and confusion usually follow."
Later, he apparently directs a comment to Okereke: "Grow up and learn to be a true man", before adding "It's a shame that the wonderful world of the media is riddled with nonsense like this".
The Bloc Party singer could not be contacted for a response.
