WEST HAM UNITED’S co-owner David Sullivan has claimed there has been an over-reaction to the ugly scenes that marred Middlesbrough’s first trip to the London Stadium on Saturday.

Boro ended a run of three consecutive defeats by claiming a point against the Hammers but the result was blighted when trouble flared outside the venue, with Middlesbrough supporters indicating they were attacked.

A group of home fans are understood to have broken through a line of stewards and footage emerged on social media showing Middlesbrough followers being attacked as they attempted to get back to their official coaches.

The Metropolitan Police confirmed three arrests were made but Sullivan, while disappointed with the actions of some, feels too much has been made of it.

"It makes me angry to read stories this morning sensationalising the events outside London Stadium (on Saturday)," Sullivan said in an official club statement.

“A group of mindless thugs with no intention of watching the game came together outside the ground, and three arrests were made.

"I have watched all the videos and as far as I can see, any issues were routine football problems that were dealt with swiftly and safely.

"It is clear that the police were quick and professional in bringing any incidents under control, and although it is something that we must stamp out from football in general, the scenes were certainly not exclusive to West Ham United and London Stadium.

"The overwhelming majority of West Ham United and Middlesbrough supporters behaved absolutely impeccably, which is something that seems to get forgotten time and time again.

"I get the impression that there are lots of people out there who want to see the migration to our new stadium fail, and will take every given opportunity, big or small, to knock what we are trying to do.

“This is completely unfair on the vast majority of West Ham United supporters who are embracing our new home and making it a stadium to be proud of.”

Middlesbrough have promised to “cooperate fully with any subsequent investigation” into Saturday’s events at the London Stadium.