Videos on social media showed violence and supporters throwing tables and chairs at Hirt Steakhouse, a restaurant in the centre of Gelsenkirchen, with hundreds of riot police descending on the scene. Local police later confirmed that the incident involved Serbian and England fans and that seven arrests were made, of which all were Serbian nationals.
Serbian fans initially claimed they were attacked by England fans while they were in the restaurant, with one telling Mail Sport that they were attacked by 'English hooligans. Mail Sport has also been told by Gelsenkirchen officials that the majority of England fans have been relaxed and enjoyed the occasion. Shocking pictures show supporters covered in blood after violence broke out ahead of England's first Group C game against Serbia, which kicks off in Gelsenkirchen at 8pm.
Two officers grapple with a fan after chasing attackers through the streets of Gelsenkirchen. An English fan is seen on the ground after being attacked by rivals ahead of the game between Serbia and England.
An English fan is seen with blood pouring from his head after being caught up in clashes today. German riot police quickly descended on the scene this afternoon as football hooliganism made a shameful return to the Euros, with police sources telling MailOnline at least six people have been arrested. There was speculation over which supporters were involved in the vicious brawls, with reports initially suggesting the violence was sparked by Serbia's arch-rivals Albania attacking Serbs.
However, Gelsenkirchen police have now said it was English and Serbian fans who were involved in the fighting. Officers moved in after trouble erupted between fans outside a restaurant-bar just after 3. Video shows a group of thugs - some hooded and masked - launching bottles, chairs and tables - while some supporters were seen fleeing the area for safety as tension boiled over. One English fan is believed to have suffered a head wound in the fracas, with one other injured.
