Wycombe Wanderers have launched an investigation after an assistant referee was struck by a missile thrown from the stands following their Carabao Cup defeat to Fulham.

The incident occurred at Adams Park moments after the final whistle of Fulham’s 5-4 penalty shootout victory, which came after a 1-1 draw in regular time.

In a statement, the club said: “Wycombe Wanderers are disappointed to report that a missile was thrown from the terrace, striking an assistant referee, following the conclusion of tonight’s Carabao Cup tie. The club strongly condemns this behaviour and is working to identify the individual responsible.”

The assistant referee was reportedly unhurt, but the incident has drawn widespread condemnation from fans and officials.

Fulham advanced to the next round after Josh King’s late equaliser cancelled out Cauley Woodrow’s early goal, forcing penalties.

This is not the first such incident this season. Earlier, Birmingham City striker Jay Stansfield was struck on the head by an empty bottle thrown from the crowd during a match, prompting concerns over fan behaviour.

Wycombe have promised to take firm action once the culprit is identified.