West Ham players’ families attacked by AZ Alkmaar fans as players try to stop ‘pathetic’ scenes

West Ham’s players were seen defending their families from AZ Alkmaar fans in disturbing scenes at the end of their Europa Conference League clash.

The Hammers had just booked their place in the final after winning 1-0 win in the Netherlands, but horrifying scenes followed the final whistle.

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Celebrating players were seen heading over to the touchline and fighting AZ fans, who, it was claimed attacked the families of the Hammers players attending.

Police and stewards were quickly on the scene but Dutch outlet AD reports that it took ten minutes for ‘peace to return’.

Speaking post-match, West Ham manager David Moyes said: “I can only tell you that players were involved because that was the family area.

“What I don’t want to do in any way is blight our night, it wasn’t West Ham supporters looking for trouble. Hopefully, they don’t look into it.”

On BT Sport, Carlton Cole said: “There was no need for it. West Ham have come here, done their job and not disrespected them in any shape or form.

“The families of the players are over there. Sometimes emotions take hold of you.”

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Fellow former Hammer Joe Cole added: “It’s absurd. Grown men attacking the West Ham fans.

“Players were trying to get involved to break it up. AZ Alkmaar fans throwing punches is ridiculous. There were families. Football is for everyone. It’s ridiculous in the modern game. Pathetic.”

More will follow.

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