FA probe into new violence

London's football fans were back in the spotlight again today after a second successive night of crowd trouble in the capital.

The Football Association, already looking into events at Millwall's Carling Cup tie with Liverpool at the Den on Tuesday, were this morning forced to open a second investigation into events at Chelsea's clash with West Ham last night.

Police in riot gear made 11 arrests after clashes with supporters at the end of the match, which Chelsea won 1-0. It took 15 minutes for them to restore order.

Blues striker Mateja Kezman was cut above the eye after a missile, thought to be a coin, was thrown from the stands where West Ham fans were seated. And a Chelsea steward, believed to be in his early 20s, was in hospital today with a suspected spinal injury after he was crushed by fans as they surged forward.

An FA spokesman said: "The FA can confirm they are investigating incidents at last night's Carling Cup match between Chelsea and West Ham United at Stamford Bridge.

"The FA will seek reports from both clubs and the police, as well as reviewing video evidence and the referee's report."

Scotland Yard said the arrests inside the ground were made for a range of offences involving public order, drugs and possession of an offensive weapon.

Kezman made light of his cut eye and said: "It was nothing, just a small accident." At least two plastic water bottles were also thrown onto the pitch during the third-round match.

Millwall, meanwhile, have launched their own inquiry into a segregation breach which was blamed for causing the violence.