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NEWHAM Council is “urgently reviewing the safety management plans, procedures and staffing” of the London Stadium in the wake of the ugly scenes which marred West Ham’s 3-0 home defeat to Burnley.
The Hammers are facing an investigation by the Football Association after a series of pitch invasions and widespread supporter unrest, which saw co-owner David Sullivan struck by a coin towards the end of Saturday’s game.
Mayor of London Sadiq Khan said today that the events were “disgraceful,” and called for West Ham to “carry out a thorough investigation … and take proper action against those supporters who misbehaved.”
Mr Khan announced in December 2017 that he would take over full control of the stadium, with the London Borough of Newham withdrawing from the partnership which owns it following the publication of an independent review.
Stewarding is handled by stadium operators E20, and has been a frequent problem for the Hammers since their move from Upton Park.
The latest incidents at the rebuilt Olympic Stadium have raised fears that the club could be punished by having to play a future game behind closed doors.
Newham Council remain the certifying authority for the London Stadium and plan to wait on emergency talks before taking action.
“In December last year Newham Council completely withdrew from its position as part owners of the London Stadium, but retains the role of certifying authority. In that capacity the council, along with the Sports Ground Safety Authority, is urgently reviewing the safety management plans and procedures and staffing of the stadium.”
The emergency talks include the Metropolitan Police, E20 and West Ham.
The club insisted they would take “decisive and appropriate action.”
West Ham are next scheduled to play a home Premier League match against fellow relegation battlers Southampton on March 31.