FA probe: Irons can’t escape security responsibility

West Ham are still awaiting the outcome of the FA charge brought as a result of the events of last season’s incidents during the Burnley clash on March 10.

Since then we have seen two instances of smoke bombs at London Stadium in games against Spurs, both of which could bring further charges against the Hammers.

Finally, there is the pitch invasion of another three supporters last Wednesday as West Ham lost against Spurs in the EFL cup.

It is easy to say that West Ham has no control over the London Stadium or the stewarding but quite simply the  FA cannot charge or fine the stadium owners or operators. Only the club can be held responsible.

West Ham is likely to receive fines from the FA  for all these offences could despite having no control over the stadium security.

The Hammers could decide to pursue the stadium owners who in turn, pursue the stadium operators for compensation for the amount of the fines.

But that could get messy and end up with more expensive ligation in an already fractured relationship.

I am sure that the owners and operators would argue that West Ham are responsible for the behaviour of their supporters and they don’t experience any such problems at rugby matches or athletics and that it is mostly a football problem.