Meet the football thugs who took part in 'worst violence in decades' as Aston Villa supporters praised

Eight men have pleaded guilty to their involvement in what police have described as some of the worst football-related violence seen in the UK in decades following a fixture between Aston Villa and Polish club Legia Warsaw on November 30, 2023.

Around 300 officers from the West Midlands and other forces were deployed to manage the disorder outside Villa Park. The Legia Warsaw supporters armed themselves with poles, branches, drainpipes and used rocks, missiles and debris as weapons during the 30-minute disturbance.

PC Andy Forbes suffered burn injuries after a flare became lodged in his uniform during the violence. One officer was knocked out when struck with missiles, whilst another sustained an injury to his mouth. Two police dogs suffered injuries to their paws including from broken glass, and a police horse was left with cuts when a bottle was thrown at it.

Seven men have now pleaded guilty to violent disorder, whilst an eighth admitted affray. Sentencing will take place in December. Three other men have previously been convicted for offences including assaulting a police officer, possession of a knife and possession of cocaine.

Among those charged was Doran Urbaniak, 42, of Leicester, who "was at the front of the crowd on Station Road threatening officers with his fists raised before throwing an item at the police" and "was instrumental in maintaining the crowd's hostility to police."

Detective Inspector Tom Lyons, who led the investigation, said: "This was horrific violence from the so-called fans of Legia Warsaw fans who threw missiles at officers attacked them and hurled abuse at them. Sadly it descended into some of the worst violence UK football has seen in decades."

More than 40 people were arrested and approximately 700 hours of body-worn camera footage were reviewed as part of the investigation. Police said they also have suspects in Poland they are seeking to bring before the British courts.

In contrast, Aston Villa supporters were praised for their efforts to help control the violence and assist officers.