West Ham investigate reports of attack on German commentators

West Ham have promised action after two German commentators allege they were attacked during the club’s 2-1 loss at home to Eintracht Frankfurt in the first leg of their Europa League semi-final tie.

Philipp Hofmeister and Tim Brockmeier, commentators for German public service broadcasters ARD, reported being assaulted by West Ham fans in the wake of Mikhail Antonio’s equalising goal for the home side on 21 minutes.

ESPN’s Bundesliga commentator Derek Rae reported on Twitter upon hearing the broadcast: “The ARD Radio broadcasters have reported that they in their words ‘were attacked’ by English fans behind them as the West Ham goal went in for 1:1. You could hear it on air. It disrupted the broadcast briefly. ‘I’ve never experienced anything like it’.”

Reportedly shook by the incident, Hofmeister and Brockmeier were subsequently moved to the middle of the press area, away from the home fans, by the West Ham media team.

West Ham released a statement this evening after being made aware of the incident

“The club is aware of the incident and will be working to identify the offender,” it read.

“In line with our zero-tolerance approach, anyone identified will have their details passed to the police.

“They will be given an indefinite ban and be unable to enter London Stadium and travel with the club. There is no place for this kind of behaviour.”

Hofmeister has this evening commented, in reply to Rae’s initial reporting of the incident, saying: “Thanks a lot. We are doing okay. Best wishes to all West Ham supporters who love football and respect their opponents.”