West Brom condemn Chris Brunt incident

West Brom tonight condemned the incident where defender Chris Brunt was struck in the face by a coin thrown at him from the Albion end.

The former club captain was going over to the 3,800 travelling fans to throw his shirt into the crowd after the final whistle at Reading today.

But, at that point, someone in the crowd threw a 50p coin at the left-back, hitting him in the face.

Brunt picked the missile up and started remonstrating angrily with the fans, attempting to find out who threw the coin.

He was dragged away by current captain Darren Fletcher, as the Albion supporters rounded on the fan who allegedly threw the missile.

They had to be separated by stewards, in an incident which marred the end of a disappointing 3-1 defeat away in the FA Cup.

A club statement reads: "All our true supporters will join the club in condemning the sickening behaviour of a few individuals at the end of the game.

"They will be horrified at the sight of one of our longest-serving players, Chris Brunt, being struck beneath an eye by a coin.

"It came as he attempted to show the team's appreciation to the travelling fans for their backing during an ultimately disappointing afternoon.

"The incident should not be allowed to blacken the good name of West Bromwich Albion and its loyal supporters.

"We are working with all the relevant authorities to identify as quickly as possible the offender, who can expect the severest of sanctions by the club for his actions.

"We are now sure all our supporters will be anxious to show the true spirit of the genuine West Bromwich Albion fans for the forthcoming fixtures, beginning against Crystal Palace at the Hawthorns on Saturday."