UEFA has begun disciplinary proceedings against Saint Etienne following the behaviour of their fans at Old Trafford last night.
Manchester United won the Europa League last-32 first leg clash 3-0 with striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic continuing his excellent personal record against Saint Etienne with a hat-trick.
European football's governing body is looking into the general conduct of the French club's fans, as well as throwing of objects and the setting off of a firework.
Flares in the stands during the UEFA Europa League Round of 32, First Leg match at Old Trafford, Manchester. Picture by Martin Rickett PA Wire/PA Images
UEFA confirmed the nature of the charges: "Disciplinary proceedings have been opened against AS Saint-Étienne due to the behaviour of their supporters during their UEFA Europa League Round of 32 match against Manchester United FC on 16 February 2017 at Old Trafford.
"The following proceedings have been opened against AS Saint-Étienne for the following infringements:
"Setting off of firework – Art. 16 (2) of the UEFA Disciplinary Regulations (DR)
"Throwing of objects – Art. 16 (2) DR
"Improper conduct of supporters – Art. 16 (2) DR
"The UEFA Control, Ethics and Disciplinary Body will meet to deal with this case at its meeting on 23 March 2017."
The return leg is next Wednesday at Stade Geoffroy-Guichard.
Interestingly the last time Saint Etienne travelled to England to face Manchester United in a European club fixture, it was the home fans who were at the centre of scrutiny.
In the 1977 Cup Winners Cup, United had to host Saint Etienne 200km away from Old Trafford in Plymouth because of crowd trouble in the first leg in France.
Download the brand new OffTheBall App in the Play Store & App Store right now! We've got you covered!
Subscribe to OffTheBall's YouTube channel for more videos, like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter for the latest sporting news and content.
