West Ham crowd trouble: Met Police investigating after furious fan protest breaks out at London Stadium

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Police have launched an investigation after furious protests broke out at the London Stadium following West Ham’s 3-0 defeat to Burnley.

The Premier League clash descended into chaos as angry fans hurled abuse at West Ham co-owners David Gold and David Sullivan, forcing them to leave the ground for their own safety.

Hammers captain Mark Noble earlier clashed with a pitch-invading fan who ran on after Ashley Barnes put Burnley ahead in the second half.

As that fan ran back towards the stands another two came on and were eventually led away by defender James Collins.

A fourth supporter picked up a corner flag, ran to the centre-circle and planted it in the ground.

In Pictures | West Ham vs Burnley | 10/03/2018

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Scotland Yard said that two allegations of assault have been received.

It comes after a turbulent week off the pitch, which has seen fans cancel a planned protest march and then turn against each other as a second demonstration was arranged and subsequently shelved.

It was Burnley’s second goal, scored by Chris Wood, which proved the final straw for hundreds of fans, who charged along the concourse between the tiers of the stadium to gather underneath the directors’ box.

A number could be heard chanting "sack the board" and "you destroyed our club".

Mr Gold and Mr Sullivan were then advised to leave the stadium for their own safety.

The pair's decision to uproot the club from its old Upton Park ground to the former Olympic Stadium is behind the anger.

A Met Police spokeswoman said: “Towards the end of the fixture between West Ham and Burnley at the London Stadium on Saturday, March 10, four separate pitch invasions by individual home fans took place.

“During the pitch incursions an impromptu protest took place within the stadium with around 200 people gathering under the Directors Box.

“Two allegations of assault have been received by police. These are being investigated.

“Exit from the stadium following the game passed without incident.

“At this stage there have been no arrests.”

In a statement, the club said: "West Ham United have immediately launched a full and thorough investigation into the incidents which marred the second half of today's match and are committed to taking decisive and appropriate action.

"An emergency meeting has been called with all London Stadium stakeholders. There will be no further comment at this time."

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