West Ham reinstate coach suspended for involvement in march

West Ham have reinstated academy coach Mark Phillips after investigating his involvement in a march organised by the Democratic Football Lads Alliance (DFLA).

Phillips attended the march and was subsequently suspended by the Hammers for a breach of their social media policy after he defended the DFLA, which has been accused of Islamophobia and racism, in a series of posts on Twitter.

Sky Sports News understands Phillips, who coaches West Ham U18s, did not offer to resign and the club's investigation found there were insufficient grounds for dismissal.

A club statement read: "West Ham United can confirm that following suspension and subsequent investigation, academy coach Mark Phillips has been reinstated to his role in accordance with employment law, and has been reminded of his responsibilities."

In October, football's anti-racism organisation, Kick It Out, was made aware of Phillips' involvement in the march and subsequently reported the complaint to West Ham.

The demonstration descended into violence when anti-racist protesters attempted to block the DFLA's route, although there is no suggestion Phillips was involved in the disorder.