The man ran across the pitch waving a West Ham shirt A youth football worker has reacted with anger to the sight of a West Ham fan joining a pitch invasion with a boy of about four on his shoulders. The man ran on to the pitch amid chaotic scenes during Tuesday's Carling Cup game between West Ham and Millwall. Joe Long, chairman of the East London and Essex Junior Football League (ELE), called the man's actions "disgusting". A Football Association spokesman condemned the behaviour and said the man should receive a lifetime ban. He joined in with one of three pitch invasions at the game which was marred by fighting. The message it is sending is very disturbing

Joe Long, ELE chairman

Read your comments and reaction One man was stabbed before the match outside the ground and at least 13 people were arrested during the course of the evening. Video footage shows the supporter in question running along the side of the pitch waving a West Ham football strip in one hand. A boy who appears to be about four clings to his shoulders. Mr Long said: "It is sickening - absolutely disgusting. The message it is sending is very disturbing. "Running on the pitch with a young child on your shoulders is not an example to give to young people." A spokesman for the FA - which has been trying to attract more families to the game - said: "Clearly, it is a criminal offence for anyone to encroach upon the playing area. "All I can do is again condemn any such behaviour." A Metropolitan Police spokesman said he could not discuss individual cases. A spokesman for the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children said they had no comment.



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