‘It was really understandable’: Chris Sutton can see why West Ham players ducked into the crowd to protect their families during the shocking violence at the end of the Conference League semi-final against AZ Alkmaar
Chris Sutton has supported West Ham players after they ducked into the public to protect their friends and family following their win over AZ Alkmaar.
This comes after David Moyes’ side scored late to secure their place in the UEFA Conference League final as Pablo Fornals’ strike was enough for the win on the night, with a 3-1 aggregate victory seeing the Londoners in their first European final in 47 years. .
However, with post-match controversy when AZ Alkmaar supporters attacked the West Ham faithful, several players jumped into the crowd to protect their fans, which pundit Sutton understood.
Speaking to BT Sport, he said: “I challenge any player in that position, with family members who are in that situation and don’t defend them.
‘It seemed so. How AZ ended up in this must be examined by UEFA. Very understandable in terms of the player’s reaction.’
Pablo Fornals scored the only goal of the game to send West Ham to a European final
AZ Alkmaar fans tried to attack the West Ham supporters after Fornals scored his goal
Chris Sutton and Don Hutchinson defended the worried West Ham players
Don Hutchinson, who played twice for the Irons, joined Sutton in supporting the West Ham players for their concerns.
“Chris said with five minutes left the Dutch police should have smelled it and protected the West Ham fans,” he began.
“The players are elated and then it turns to fear. Your family is in there, your wife, your children can be in there.
“Your first action as a player is to get in there and protect the loved ones. It’s commendable, but it should never happen.’
After the game, Hammers boss David Moyes admitted he was also concerned for his family.
“I can’t explain what happened and why it happened,” Moyes said.
“Players were involved because it was the family section… that was probably the reason for the reaction.
“I don’t want that to ruin the night because the West Ham fans weren’t looking for trouble. Hopefully they (UEFA) will look into it.
“My family was there and I had friends in that section. You hope they would try to get rid of it… I didn’t recognize it because I was too happy.
“Security wanted to bring me in, but I had to make sure my players weren’t involved.”
West Ham will face Fiorentina in the final of the Europa Conference League, following the Italians’ late victory in extra time over FC Basel.
More to follow…