FANS found to be involved in football violence during West Ham's game against Millwall could be banned for life.

The Hammers will investigate the “deplorable scenes” which occurred before, during, and after the Irons second round Carling Cup tie.

A 44-year-old man is in a stable condition in hospital after being stabbed before the match after violence flared around Upton Park between rival fans.

Police made at least ten arrests last night (Tuesday).

There were also three pitch invasions by West Ham fans celebrating the club's goals and then its victory after the final whistle, despite repeated warnings over the PA system to stay off the pitch.

A West Ham statement, released after the game, said: “West Ham will fully investigate the deplorable scenes that took place during the Carling Cup tie with Millwall on Tuesday evening.

“The club will not tolerate the unacceptable behaviour witnessed inside the Boleyn Ground and will take the strongest possible action against anyone found responsible, including life bans.

“As was the case before, during and after the match, we are cooperating fully with the relevant agencies, including the police.”

The FA are also investigating the violent scenes.

A statement said: “We absolutely condemn all of the disorder that has occurred at Upton Park this evening (Tuesday), both inside and outside of the ground.

“We will very quickly be working with all parties, including the Police and clubs to establish the facts surrounding tonight's events.

“We expect all culprits to be banned for football for life – they have no place in the game.”

West Ham won 3-1 after extra time to book their place in the Carling Cup third.

Junior Stanislas scored twice and Zavon Hines netted a third to see the Hammers home after Neil Harris stunned the hosts by giving Millwall the lead.

West Ham have endured a terrible week.

Jack Collison's father died on Sunday in a motorcycle accident on the M25 near Epping, while he was travelling to watch his son play while Callum Davenport was stabbed at his mother's home in Kempston, Bedfordshire, on Saturday.

He is currently in a stable condition at hospital.