West Ham to investigate youth coach who attended Football Lads Alliance march

West Ham are set to investigate their youth coach, Mark Phillips, after he attended a march organised by the Democratic Football Lads Alliance.

The DFLA, who marched through central London on Saturday, claim to oppose “all forms of terrorism and extremism”, but they have been heavily criticised by anti-racism groups.

Phillips has posted on his Twitter account about attending the march and defended the group from any critics on the platform.

Football’s anti-racism and discrimination organisation, Kick it Out, were made aware of his involvement and reported the complaint to West Ham, with whom they are now liaising.

The DFLA have been accused of having links to far-right organisations. There is no suggestion that Phillips was involved in any of the disturbances that took place on the day.

In a statement to Standard Sport, a West Ham spokesperson said: “West Ham United is an inclusive football club. Regardless of gender, age, race, ability, religion or sexual orientation, every supporter within our diverse fanbase is warmly welcomed, free to enjoy watching their team play football without fear, discrimination or abuse.

“We have a zero-tolerance policy to any form of violent or abusive behaviour. We remain committed to ensuring that every single member of the West Ham family feels safe, respected and included.”

A Kick it Out statement read: “We can confirm we’ve received a report about a West Ham coach claiming to have attended the DFLA rally in London at the weekend.

"We have passed it on to the club and are liaising with them about the issue.”

The DFLA have been approached for comment by Standard Sport.