French football’s issues with fan violence have started before the season has even kicked off this year.

Ligue 1 is often marred by unsavoury events, and it was no different for Will Still in his second friendly match as RC Lens head coach.

During a friendly against Belgian side OH Leuven three supporters came down from the Lens crowd to abuse OHL goalkeeper Tobe Leysen, Nieuwsblad reports.

Things escalated when Leysen headed behind his goal, and fighting broke out with around 20 fans involved.

The match was temporarily stopped as the police tried to resolve matters, and then the players were sent back inside for around 20 minutes.

During the pause in play, Still, formerly of Stade Reims, confronted the fans to try and restore calm, allowing the match to eventually finish.