Police arrest two men on suspicion of attempted murder before Liverpool vs Roma in Champions League semi-final

The victim, believed to be from Ireland, is in a critical condition

Merseyside Police have arrested two men from Rome, aged 25 and 26, on suspicion of attempted murder after a 53-year-old man was seriously injured before Liverpool’s 5-2 Champions League win over Roma, a statement has confirmed.

Officers were called to The Albert public house shortly before the 7.45pm kick-off, after the victim - believed to be from Ireland - suffered a serious head injury. He was taken to Walton Neurological Centre, where his condition has been described as critical.

A statement from the club read: “Liverpool Football Club is shocked and appalled after a Liverpool supporter was left in a critical condition having been attacked prior to the Champions League fixture against AS Roma.

"Our thoughts, in the first instance, are with the victim and his family at this very traumatic time. We will be offering them our full support. The club has been liaising with the emergency services since the incident occurred and will continue to do so.”

Officers arrested one man inside the ground after a number of immediate enquiries and are keen to speak to witnesses.

Detective Inspector Paul Speight said: “We believe the victim, was in Liverpool with his brother, for the Liverpool vs Roma semi-final and was assaulted during an altercation between Roma and Liverpool fans near to The Albert pub at about 7.35pm.

“Witnesses report that the victim was hit with a belt and then fell to the ground. Paramedics treated him at the scene and he was taken by ambulance to Walton Neurological Centre, where he is being treated for a head injury. His condition is currently described as critical and his next of kin have been informed.

“The place where this incident occurred is right by the ground and was heaving with fans making their way to the game. I would appeal to anyone who has any information, or mobile phone footage of the incident to contact us urgently, as information they have could be vital to our investigation.”