FA 'strongly condemns' Manchester United team bus attack at West Ham's Boleyn Ground and 'will investigate'

The United team coach was damaged by flying objects.
(GLYN KIRK/AFP/Getty Images)
James Benge11 May 2016

The Football Association has “strongly condemned” the actions of those outside the Boleyn Ground who threw objects at the Manchester United team coach ahead of Tuesday’s game with West Ham.

Kick-off in the final game at the Boleyn Ground was delayed by 45 minutes to 8.30pm after the visitors’ coach was delayed in the nearby streets.

Smoke bombs also appeared to have been thrown in the area around Upton Park as the celebrations ahead of West Ham’s farewell to their stadium of 112 years were delayed.

The Metropolitan Police subsequently confirmed that a police officer and a member of the public had been injured during the disorder.

In a statement on Twitter the FA said: “We strongly condemns the unsavoury incidents this evening involving both the Manchester United team coach outside West Ham United's Boleyn Ground and objects thrown from a section of the home support during the game.

“We will work closely with both clubs and the Metropolitan Police to fully investigate these matters.”

Police in riot gear had tried to hold back West Ham supporters as the coach made its way to the ground.

Manchester United strike Wayne Rooney said West Ham fans had “smashed up” the team bus.

Video shot by his team-mate Jesse Lingard showed the Manchester United players having to take cover on the aisle between the seats.

Rooney said: “We know it’s a big game for West Ham, big night for them, leaving the stadium, but I’m sure West Ham as a club will be disappointed with what the fans have done.”

West Ham co-owner David Sullivan appeared to try to pass some of the blame on to Manchester United for arriving at the ground while fans were also making their way for the final ground.

He told Sky Sports immediately after the incident: "I'm gravely disappointed, more for our supporters.

"What people forget [about the kick-off being delayed] is they've got trains and buses to get home and we've got a wonderful, wonderful show after the game for them.

"Many just can't stay any more.

"Man United should have got here at 4pm. They know it's our last game. They had the same problem at Tottenham a few weeks ago.

"I think the police and officials have been kind. I'd make them kick off at 7.45pm if I was in charge."

In Pictures: West Ham vs Man United Boleyn Ground farewell

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Following the game, West Ham put on a spectacular closing ceremony that included a parade of Boleyn legends on the pitch, tributes to fans and the club's iconic captain Bobby Moore, and fireworks.

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