In a joint statement with the PSNI, the boss of the Northern Ireland Football League (NIFL) has condemned the violence.

The PSNI has told the News Letter that officers “received a report of football supporters involved in disturbances at Cliftonville Drive following a match on Friday”.

Cliftonville Drive is one of the streets leading to Cliftonville’s Solitude stadium in north Belfast, where the team was playing against Larne at 7.45pm on Friday.

The PSNI said: “During the disturbances, an object was thrown striking a male who subsequently required hospital treatment for facial injuries.

"Enquiries are ongoing and officers would ask anyone with information or footage captured from the scene to contact them at Tennent Street on 101, quoting reference number 1120 06/11/26.”

The second incident was the following day, and was linked to the Linfield vs Coleraine game that was taking place at Windsor Park in south Belfast at 6pm that night.

The PSNI said: “Police received a report of disturbances in the Donegall Avenue area of south Belfast on Saturday, November 7.

"It is believed that a number of football supporters became involved in disorder which ended with three men requiring hospital treatment for cuts and bruising.

"An investigation is underway and officers would ask anyone with information or footage captured from the scene to contact them at Lisburn Road on 101, quoting reference number 1068 07/11/26.”

The PSNI was asked which groups of supporters were involved, but it did not say.

Superintendent Chris Hamill, the PSNI’s “football lead” said: “This behaviour is unacceptable.

"The vast majority of fans attend matches to support their clubs and enjoy a day out with family and friends.

"Those intent on causing disruption and disorder undermine that experience.

"Anyone engaging in criminal activity should be aware that their actions can have serious consequences.”

In comments alongside supt Hamill, Gerard Lawlor, CEO of the NIFL (and former chairman of Cliftonville), said: “We condemn all forms of violence, disorder and antisocial behaviour associated with football.

"We urge all supporters to show respect for one another.”

And Graham Fitzgerald, chief operating officer of the Irish FA, said: “All supporters should feel safe travelling to and from matches.

"We work closely with our football and statutory partners to promote a safe and welcoming environment for everyone attending matches.”