FYI.

This story is over 5 years old.

Sports

West Ham Threaten Life Bans For Fans Filmed Fighting During Europa League Defeat

The club have taken a hardline stance on the supporters filmed exchanging blows on Thursday evening, and say they will now push for full banning orders.

West Ham have threatened life bans for two supporters filmed fighting during their defeat to Astra Giurgiu on Thursday evening.

While Slaven Bilic's side were struggling their way to a Europa League exit, two men in the stands were involved in a heated argument. In phone footage published on YouTube, one man can be seen punching the other in the face repeatedly, as stewards attempt to lead him away.

Advertisement

West Ham have now released an official statement on the incident, expressing their hardline stance on anti-social behaviour at their new stadium. It reads: "West Ham United condemn unreservedly the behaviour of individuals involved in incidents captured on video during the fixture against Astra Giurgiu.

"This behaviour has no place in football and we will work with the police and other stakeholders to identify the individuals involved.

"Once identified, they will be banned from attending any West Ham United fixture for life and we will request the courts serve a banning order to prevent these individuals attending any football."

The statement continues: "More than 200,000 supporters have already attended our opening at the London Stadium, and the West Ham United fans have been magnificent during the first four games.

"We will not allow one isolated incident to damage our supporters' and the club's reputation, hence our zero tolerance approach to this matter."