West Ham identify fans in alleged attack on German radio reporters

West Ham have said two supporters face indefinite bans if they are found to have attacked two German radio reporters during their side’s 2-1 home defeat by Eintracht Frankfurt in the semi-final, first leg of the Europa League on Thursday night.

The club have identified “two offenders” after Tim Brockmeier and Philipp Hofmeister, who were covering the game for German radio station ARD, were allegedly jumped on by home fans when Michail Antonio equalised for West Ham.

Hofmeister said on air that Brockmeier’s headset had been ripped off and thrown to the floor, and there were allegations that punches were thrown at the reporters.

West Ham launched an investigationafter the game and have passed the two supporters’ details to the Metropolitan Police. A club spokesman said: “‘Following a thorough internal investigation since the full time whistle last night, West Ham United can confirm two offenders have been identified.

“As well as continuing our own investigation, in line with our zero-tolerance approach, the offenders details have also been passed on to the police, who will now conduct their own investigation. If the offenders are found guilty, they will be given an indefinite ban and not be permitted to enter London Stadium, nor travel with the club. Behaviour of this kind is unacceptable and will not be tolerated at West Ham United.”

Hofmeister told listeners during the live broadcast: “We are being attacked here. They threw the headset down on my colleague Tim. I have to sort myself out a bit. We have to see that we can get some security personnel here.”

The two commentators were moved to another position at half-time. Hofmeister also said during the broadcast: “You constantly have the feeling that something could come