West Ham investigate reports of fan attack on German commentators during Europa League defeat
West Ham are investigating allegations that two German commentators were attacked during the first leg of West Ham’s Europa League semi-final against Eintracht Frankfurt at London Stadium.
Reports emerged during the game that the broadcasters were attacked after Michail Antonio had pulled the Hammers level in the 21st minute of the 2-1 defeat.
The pair, said to have been commentating on the match for German radio, were moved to a different broadcasting position at half-time.
According to reports in German newspaper Bild, the reporters commented live on air that one of their headsets was ripped off and thrown on the floor.
A West Ham spokesperson said: “The club is aware of the incident and will be working to identify the offender.
“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.”
ESPN commentator Derek Rae reported that the duo, Philipp Hofmeister and Tim Brockmeier, were working for ARD Radio and explained later on-air that one was “struck on the neck” when supporters possibly took umbrage at their emotional expressions when Eintracht scored the opening goal.
Additional reporting by PA
