Three police officers have been injured following disorder outside Aston Villa’s ground in Birmingham ahead of a Europa Conference League match.

The violence was reported at Villa Park ahead of a match between Aston Villa and Legia Warszawa, West Midlands Police said.

Away fans were prevented from entering the stadium after objects were thrown at officers, the force said.

The visiting fans were held in the coach park near the ground.

Stewards also removed several people believed to be away supporters from the home stands during the match, while footage on social media appeared to show objects being thrown into the stadium from outside.

Image:
Police attempt to put out flares thrown towards them outside the stadium

Police attempt to put out flares that have thrown towards them outside the stadium before the UEFA Europa Conference League Group E match at Villa Park, Birmingham. Picture date: Thursday November 30, 2023.

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Police told followers on X: “We’re currently unable to allow away fans into Villa Park following disorder outside the stadium which has seen missiles thrown at officers.

“Three officers have already been injured & a significant policing operation continues. Please avoid Witton Lane where possible.”

In a statement, Legia said their official delegation, owner and president refused to enter Villa Park in solidarity with their supporters, while they also complained about the ticketing situation.

Aston Villa and Legia went into the match neck-and-neck at the top of Group E in the Europa Conference League.

The eight group winners automatically go through to the last 16 of the competition, while the eight runners-up go into a play-off with the third-ranked teams from the Europa League groups.