FOOTBALL bosses are set to launch an investigation after an elderly Saints fan was hit by a smoke grenade at an away game.
The supporter was watching Saints take on AFC Bournemouth at the Vitality Stadium on Wednesday evening.
Two smoke grenades were discharged in the away supporters' section, one of which struck the fan and burned the back of his leg.
He was treated by members of South West Ambulance Service and returned to his seat to watch the game, which Saints won 1-0.
The incident, which occurred immediately after Saints scored, will be investigated by the Football Association.
An AFC Bournemouth spokesperson said: "We pride ourselves on the welcoming and inclusive atmosphere at Vitality Stadium, which the vast majority of home and away supporters help to create.
READ MORE: Saints fan speak out after club decides to close entire block at St Mary's Stadium
"We continue to support the FA, Premier League and Football Supporters' Association to make football a safer environment, by cracking down on dangerous behaviour that can put fans, players, staff and match officials at risk.”
It comes after an increase in crowd trouble at St Mary's Stadium and other football grounds across the country.
Earlier this month Saints decided to close Block 1 of the Itchen North Stand following “unacceptable behaviour” during a game against Everton. The club has also warned that a wall could be built between home and away supporters at the ground.
The Football Association has vowed to target unruly fans across the country who put people's safety at risk.
In a statement issued before the start of the current season the FA said anyone who ran on to the pitch or used a smoke bomb would receive an automatic club ban.
READ MORE: Saints could build wall to separate home and away fans at St Mary's Stadium
It added: "We are working with clubs to highlight the important role that fans, clubs, players and coaches all have to play in helping to create a safe environment. "Our strong and collective approach reflects how seriously we all view this issue and the severity of the risks."
Last night a Dorset police spokesperson said: "During the match involving AFC Bournemouth and Southampton FC reports were received that smoke bombs or flares were being used in the stadium.
"Dorset Police is continuing to work with AFC Bournemouth to identify the people responsible."
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