AZ Alkmaar thugs who attacked West Ham fans told by Dutch police to hand themselves in or be unmasked on TV

The AZ Alkmaar thugs who caused trouble during their clash against West Ham have been told they will be unmasked on national TV if they don’t hand themselves in.

A section of the club’s supporters tried to attack the friends and family of West Ham players after their Europa Conference League clash last week.

In shocking scenes after the semi-final second leg tie, some fans could be seen marching towards those behind the goal.

But Hammers supporter Chris Knoll – a 58-year-old father of four – was spotted fighting the hoard off as he defended the family stand.

Knoll has since become a folk hero at the London Stadium, where he was given a standing ovation on Sunday after the 3-1 win against Leeds. It’s since been reported ‘Knollsy’s’ heroics have seen him rewarded with a ticket to their Conference League final date with Fiorentina.

Police have been investigating the incident which took place in the Netherlands, and they are now ready to show their faces to the public.

According to Dutch news outlet Algemeen Dagblad, per the Daily Mail, police set a deadline of 4pm local time [3pm UK time] for those that took part in the fracas to come forward.

It has been said that 16 of the black-clad mob that stormed the barriers have already admitted their part in the attack.

But the authorities have insisted that unless the others come forward, they will reveal their identity on Opsporing Verzocht – the Dutch equivalent of Crimestoppers.

A police statement read: “If you were involved in these disturbances and you want to prevent your photo from being shown on national television, report to the police as soon as possible.”

The TV show was initially set to share 24 images of those in question, but it has been claimed that the figure has reduced to over ten.

And should more ultras admit responsibility, the number will likely drop even further.

While AZ Alkmaar are likely to be charged by UEFA for failing to control their fans, it remains to be seen whether West Ham players could face punishment.

Declan Rice, Michail Antonio, Lucas Paqueta, Said Benrahma and Flynn Downes all jumped into the stands to protect their loved ones.