In a statement released today, the police said: ‘‘Leicestershire police are investigating an allegation of assault during Saturday’s match between Leicester City and West Ham.

‘‘The investigation is still at a very early stage and both victim and alleged perpetrator are yet to be spoken to by police.’’

The match ended in a controversial 1-1 draw when Leicester skipper Matt Elliott was sent off 20 minutes from time.

He fouled Joe Cole to concede a penalty and then appeared to head-butt Trevor Sinclair.

Paolo Di Canio converted the spot kick to cancel out Muzzy Izzet’s opening goal and leave Leicester in the relegation zone.

West Ham have moved to deny reports of the alleged ‘incident’.

In a statement, the club said: ‘‘Following several reports in this morning’s media regarding a police investigation into an alleged incident after the game against Leicester City on Saturday, West Ham United can confirm that no incident took place in the tunnel after the final whistle.

‘‘However, the club understands that the police have received a complaint from a steward regarding the incident during the game.

‘‘Having spoken with several members of the team the club is completely confident that once all statements have been taken no further action will follow.

‘‘West Ham United will not make any further comment regarding the matter until the police have completed their investigations.’’