Fiorentina captain Cristiano Biraghi struck by object thrown by West Ham fans

Fiorentina captain Cristiano Biraghi was left bleeding after being struck by an object thrown by West Ham supporters during the Europa Conference League final.

The defender was hit by multiple missiles after walking over to take a corner in front of the Hammers’ contingent and required treatment from medical staff.

One object, believed to have been a vape, struck Biraghi directly on his scalp and caused a small gash, leading blood to pour down the back of his head and his neck.

The match was halted to allow the officials to hold consultations with both captains, and a number of West Ham players attempted to calm down the unruly supporters.

A stadium announcement was made, warning fans against throwing projectiles.

‘An important security announcement. Stop throwing objects onto the pitch. Please respect players and the officials,’ the brief PA message said.

Biraghi, who initially directed a sarcastic clap toward the West Ham supporters after being hit, was deemed able to continue, albeit with a bandage on his head.

Nayef Aguerd, Lucas Paqueta and Vladimir Coufal had also pleaded with fans to stop throwing cups from the away section of the Eden Arena.

Prior to the match, violence had broken out in Prague. Hammers fans were ambushed by a group of black-clad Italians in a bar and several arrests were made.

More to follow.