POLICE are seeking football banning orders for nine people who have been charged in connection with football violence which erupted when West Ham played Millwall.

If successful, the banning orders would see them barred from attending any football ground in Britain.

A total of 14 people have been arrested in connection with public order offences relating to the violence which occurred before, during and after West Ham's second round Carling Cup tie against Millwall last Tuesday, August 25.

Four of those have been bailed to return in October pending further enquiries while one person has been released without charge.

Chief Superintendent Steve Wisbey, who was in charge of policing at the match, said: “Police worked closely with West Ham United FC, British Transport Police, and Newham Council to minimise disorder.

“Officers responded swiftly whilst missiles were being thrown as they tried to separate fans outside the ground after the match.

“Incidents of this nature at a match are thankfully rare, but it would appear that a small number of supporters were intent on causing a confrontation.

“We are committed to providing a safe and trouble free environment for fans who attend matches to support their teams.

“A team of dedicated police officers are reviewing all the events that took place on the night and we continue to look at CCTV both inside and outside the ground to identify evidence of offences and offenders.

“We will proactively seek to obtain football banning orders for those responsible so they will not be permitted in stadia throughout the country or abroad.”

A 43-year-old, described by police as a 'family man', who was stabbed before the match, has now been discharged from hospital.

The Millwall fan, from Eltham, south-east London, had arrived with ten members of his family, including two teenage sons aged 17 and 18.

They initially headed to the wrong entrance of West Ham's ground Upton Park and were making their way to the correct part when they were approached by a large group of Hammers supporters who chased them.

The victim and his sons became separated from the rest of his family and were attacked by the group who threw punches and kicks.

After being separated from his sons, the victim continued to be attacked by the group, receiving a stab wound to the chest.

The group fled in various directions and he managed to make his way through an alleyway before collapsing.

His sons, who were not seriously injured, found him and called the emergency services.

A 20-year-old man was arrested in connection with the stabbing and he has been bailed to return in September pending further enquiries.

The nine people charged by police will appear at Stratford Magistrates' Court on Friday, September 4.

Anyone with information about the football violence should call the Violent Crime Unit at Plaistow Police Station on 8275 5851 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.