AS Roma ‘Condemns Abhorrent’ Liverpool Fan Attack

Italy football giant AS Roma has condemned in strong words the alterations between Liverpool fans and Roma fans which left a 53-year-old man in critical condition.

A 53-year-old man thought to be a Liverpool fan from Ireland sustained a head injury and is being treated in hospital.

The incident occurred outside the Albert Pub – close to Anfield’s famous Kop Stand – where fans were gathering before kick-off of the semi-final first-leg match.

Two men, aged 25 and 26 from Rome, have been reportedly taken to a police station where they will be questioned by detectives in connection to the incident.

In a statement on its official website on Wednesday, Roma expressed shock and sympathy on the victim of the assault.

The 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.

Union of European Football Associations, UEFA, also condemned the attack in a statement: “UEFA is deeply shocked by the vile attack that occurred ahead of the Liverpool FC v AS Roma match and our thoughts are with the victim and his family.

“The perpetrators of this ignominious attack have no place in and around football and we trust they will be dealt with utmost severity by the authorities.

“UEFA is waiting to receive full reports before deciding on potential disciplinary charges.”