England celebrations turn sour as police clash with fans in London

Football fans clashed with police as crowds flooded London’s streets to celebrate England’s win.

The team beat Ukraine 4-0 during the game in Rome on Saturday night, securing a slot in the Euro 2020 semi-final against Denmark.

Jubilant fans gathered in Trafalgar Square, Leicester Square, Pall Mall and Piccadilly Circus with chants of “it’s coming home,” and cars beeping their horns sounding around the city.

But celebrations also grew sour as police clashed with swathes of fans.

Read: Police searching for ‘heroic’ skateboarders who intervened in fatal Oxford Circus stabbing

Nine people arrested as scuffles broke out with officers, Scotland Yard confirmed.

One person was arrested on suspicion of actual bodily harm of a police officer and three were accused of assaulting a police officer.

Officers formed human barricades and pushed against crowds as the celebrations descended into chaos.

Videos showed officers wrestling people to the ground as they tried to disperse the fans.

At least 50 officers were seen lining the streets in Leicester Square as they ordered spectators, who showed little regard for social distancing measures, to move.

One officer even went as far as confiscating a fan's football, prompting chorus boos from those watching on.

Deputy Assistant Commissioner Jane Connors, Metropolitan Police Service said: “Last night following England’s match against Ukraine we saw a number of people take to the streets and I am pleased to say that this was all largely good natured. Fans engaged positively with officers and they dispersed when asked.

“While a larger crowd gathered in Leicester Square this area was cleared by approximately 11pm.

"Two officers were injured as this area was cleared and thankfully their injuries are not life-threatening.

"We will continue to have measures in place to keep the public safe, prevent crime and disorder and respond effectively to any incidents.

"I would also like to remind everyone that London remains in a public health crisis and we must all take action to stick to the rules in line with the government guidance.”

One woman was seen being treated by paramedics at a tube station entrance nearby with what appeared to be a minor head injury.

It comes after fans were urged not to travel as Italy remains on the UK's amber list.

Support for Gareth Southgate's men nonetheless remained high regardless of pandemic restraints.

Pictures showed England fans posing in front of the Colosseum ahead of the game, with some living outside the UK managing to get tickets.

Trevor Harris, 40, from Watford, who was celebrating the victory in London, said: 'It's coming home. You can hear everyone chanting it. England is England and it's about time we actually started playing.'

Keira Starr, 19, added: "I thought we'd lose, but now I actually think we'll be in the final."

Another supporter, Marc Ghossein, said: "It's an amazing feeling. We have been waiting for this for 25 years now. We're almost at the semi-final, it's coming home. England is going to win this year."

His friend Ellie Mhanna added: "England is going to win this year's Euros for sure. They've been consistent and they deserve it."

England is in their first European Championship semi-final for 25 years after beating Ukraine four goals to nil at the Stadio Olimpico.