Reece James speaks out after video of fan violence before Chelsea draw against West Ham

Before a ball was kicked in the early kick-off at the London Stadium between West Ham and the Blues, a video showed one fan getting punched in the face.

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It appeared to be outside the ground on the way into the stadium before the derby clash, with the fan seemingly knocked out.

The footage went viral on social media while a later video appeared to show the same fan being escorted in via a wheelchair.

And after the match, James responded on social media and denounced the purported fan violence.

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He wrote on a blacked-out background on Instagram: "The news has crossed my attention that a fan was punched and knocked out before today's game.

"I totally understand rivalry and the tension between teams in big games but violence is no answer.

"I hope he's okay. Appreciate the travelling fans as always.

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"Stick with us and stay safe. See you in Dortmund."

James had played the full 90 minutes for Chelsea against West Ham, the first match he has completed since a cruel double injury that had ruled him out for nearly three months.

However, the Blues could only muster a 1-1 draw in east London in another disappointing performance under Graham Potter.

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Joao Felix scored his first Chelsea goal since moving to the club on loan from Atletico Madrid, but former Blues star Emerson Palmieri netted the equaliser.

It is now just two Premier League wins in 13 as the Stamford Bridge outfit continue to struggle despite over £300million spent in January.

Chelsea now travel to Germany to face Borussia Dortmund in the first round of the Champions League, which they might need to win in order to play in that competition next year.