Queens Park Rangers have confirmed that they have launched an investigation after Chelsea defender Branislav Ivanovic was struck on the head by an object that was thrown from the stands at Loftus Road on Sunday.
The object, which appears to be a cigarette lighter, hit Ivanovic as the Blues players celebrated Cesc Fabregas's goal in the Premier League match, which finished 1-0 to the visitors.
QPR have stated that they are reviewing CCTV footage of the aftermath of the goal in an attempt to identify those responsible.
"The club is aware that objects were thrown by a small section of supporters towards the pitch following Chelsea's 88th-minute goal," a statement on QPR's official website read.
"Whilst we understand that passions run high during derby fixtures, this is not the kind of behaviour the club condones in any way, shape or form. We take a zero tolerance approach to this sort of behaviour and, if the perpetrators are identified, they will be banned indefinitely from the stadium and, where appropriate, we will liaise with the Metropolitan Police.
"The club are awaiting communication from the FA following the referee's report and will work closely with them in ensuring something like this does not happen again."
The FA will contact both clubs regarding the incident.
Steven Toplis
