West Ham United have promised "heightened" security measures for Saturday's Premier League clash with Southampton at the London Stadium.

The Hammers' last home game, a 3-0 defeat to Burnley on March 10, was marred by a number of crowd disturbances including pitch invasions, protests and projectiles aimed towards the directors' box.

Almost 20 fans have been issued with lifetime bans following the unrest, and the club "expect additional bans to be confirmed imminently".

West Ham are now taking steps to avoid any repeat of the unsavoury scenes and have announced that there will be an increased police and security personnel presence this weekend.

"Heightened measures will include a significantly enhanced number of police officers and security personnel at London Stadium, as well a dynamic pitch response team," a statement read.

"To assist with creating the safest environment possible for all and following direction from the Safety Advisory Group, several security gates will also be in operation throughout the Stadium both on the bridges within the lower tier and on the internal concourses, which will restrict fans' migration around the stadium.

"With these new measures in place, supporters are advised to allow extra time to take their seats before the 3pm kickoff. The club are, as always, committed to providing fans with the best matchday experience possible, with these procedures only in place for the safety and security of all inside London Stadium.

"Every ticket holder is an ambassador for this club and we would like to remind those coming to London Stadium on Saturday of their responsibilities to themselves, their fellow supporters, the team and everyone associated with the club to support West Ham United in a passionate, respectful manner.

"Lifetime bans were issued to individuals who crossed safety barriers to enter the field of play during the Burnley fixture, while a number of others were banned for life for violently throwing coins or objects with intent to injure or harm on the bridge directly in front of the directors' box. As part of an ongoing thorough investigation, the club expect additional bans to be confirmed imminently.

"During the second half of that Burnley game, we witnessed scenes that none of us would like to see repeated and this Saturday we encourage you all to join us in backing the team in a hugely important fixture and make us all feel proud of West Ham United again."

West Ham sit just three points clear of the Premier League relegation zone.