SUNAK: BAN CUP SHAME HOOLIGANS

PRIME MINISTER Rishi Sunak has waded into the Black Country derby shame, calling for criminal charges and banning orders for those involved.

West Midlands Police have confirmed six arrests for a variety of offences, including throwing punches at a police officer and brandishing a corner flag as a weapon.

Play was stopped for 36 minutes after referee Thomas Bramall took the players off the pitch during the West Brom v Wolves FA Cup tie.

West Brom players headed into the stands to rescue their families amid the ugly scenes at the Hawthorns.

And the TV footage, broadcast live, prompted a response from Downing Street. The PM’S spokesperson said: “Those scenes are extremely concerning. There’s no place for that kind of behaviour in football.

“The PM believes everyone should be able to watch their team without any threats of violence or antisocial behaviour.

“And he firmly expects anyone involved to face criminal charges and to be banned from future games.”

West Brom have already said they are working with police to identify the trouble-makers.

Chief Inspector Tim Robinson said: “What we saw was completely unacceptable violence directed at both fans and officers, which sadly led to the suspension of the game.

“No football fan wants to see that. It’s important to stress, however, that it was very much a minority of fans involved in the trouble, and the vast majority of supporters were a credit to their clubs.

“Our policing operation was very much targeted against those who we know or suspect are involved in football violence, and our priority at all times is keeping people safe.

“A number of officers have been injured, and we have already started the process of reviewing evidence, including body-worn video and CCTV, to ensure that we identify and arrest all of those involved over the coming days and weeks.

“Those involved in the disorder can expect to receive club bans and wider football banning orders.”

The FA has launched an inquiry. Wolves won the tie 2-0.