West Ham have warned they could hand life bans to any supporters found to have been involved in crowd trouble during Saturday’s 4-2 Premier League defeat by Watford.
An unspecified number of fans were ejected from the London Stadium after fights broke out in the closing stages of the game, although the Met Police have stated there were no arrests.
West Ham supporters fought among themselves and clashed with stewards and Watford fans, in what was just the Hammers’ second Premier League game at their new home.
“West Ham unreservedly condemn the behaviour of the individuals involved in incidents during today’s fixture against Watford,” read a statement released by the club.
“While these isolated incidents were quickly brought under control, this behaviour has no place in football and West Ham will work tirelessly to eradicate such incidents.
“We are currently undertaking an immediate full review with all stakeholders.
“This includes police, stadium landlord and operator LS185, who are responsible for appointing and managing stewards and security, to ensure we eradicate such incidents moving forward.
“Our policy on this behaviour remains one of zero tolerance 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 fixture for life and we will request the courts serve banning orders to prevent these individuals attending any football.”
West Ham manager Slaven Bilic was surprised to learn of the incidents.
“I’ve been told about it, and I asked what riot? I really didn’t see anything,” Bilic said.
“I knew that at 4-2 the stadium was not packed because people were starting to go home, but I didn’t see anything so I can’t give a comment on that.”
The Football Association is awaiting formal reports of the trouble before deciding on any course of action, which may include disciplinary measures.
It is understood the FA plans to contact West Ham to seek observations from the club about the events in the stands.
