Roma have condemned fan violence that left a Liverpool fan fighting for his life as “vile” following an attack outside of Anfield before the Champions League semi-final first leg.
The Italian club insisted the actions of a minority have brought shame on the club after the Reds took a 5-2 lead heading back to the second leg at the Olimpico next week.
Police have arrested two men, both from Rome and aged 25 and 26, on suspicion of attempted murder following the critical injury to a 53-year-old man from Ireland.
Roma’s statement read: “AS Roma condemns in the strongest possible terms the abhorrent behavior of a small minority of traveling fans who brought shame on the club and the vast majority of Roma’s well-behaved supporters at Anfield after getting involved in clashes with Liverpool supporters before last night’s fixture.
“There is no place for this type of vile behavior in football and the club is now cooperating with Liverpool Football Club, UEFA and the authorities.
“The club’s thoughts and prayers are with the 53-year-old Liverpool fan in hospital and his family at this time.”
Uefa are ‘shocked by the incident’ but will await a report before deciding on taking action.
Police were called to the Albert pub at about 7.35pm, prior to the Champions League clash against Roma, following reports that the victim had been seriously assaulted.
Paramedics attended at the scene and the victim, who suffered a head injury, was taken to Walton Neurological Centre where his condition is described as ‘critical.’
