Two Italian men charged over Anfield incident which left man in critical condition

Image: A 53-year-old man is in hospital after an incident outside The Albert - a pub close to Anfield

Merseyside Police have charged two Italian men following an incident at Anfield on Tuesday April 24 in which a 53-year-old man was seriously injured.

Sean Cox, a father of three from Ireland, remains in critical condition after the incident outside of the ground before the Champions League semi-final first leg between Liverpool and Roma.

The two Roma fans charged in connection with the attack on Sean Cox have been remanded in custody and will appear at Liverpool Crown Court on Thursday 24th May.

Filippo Lombardi and Daniele Sciusco were not granted bail at South Sefton Magistrates Court on Thursday afternoon.

In a statement on Thursday morning, Merseyside Police said: "We can confirm that detectives have charged two Italian men following an incident in Anfield on Tuesday, 24 April in which a 53-year-old man was seriously injured.

"20-year-old Filippo Lombardi was charged with violent disorder and wounding/inflict grievous bodily harm.

"29-year-old Daniele Sciusco was charged with violent disorder.

"The victim remains in hospital in a critical condition at Walton Neurological Centre."

A fundraising site has been set up to support Mr Cox and his family.

A statement from the family of Mr Cox read: "We want the world to know that Sean is the most amazing and wonderful husband, dad, friend, son, uncle, and brother and he has brought us all nothing but joy.

"He is a truly decent man who adores Liverpool FC and just came over from his home in County Meath, Ireland, to watch his beloved team.

"We are completely devastated by what has happened to our lovely, caring Sean and all we want is for him to come home to his loving wife and three children.

"We hope Sean makes a full recovery from the injuries he sustained and that we will all be back together soon as a family in Ireland spending precious time together."

Merseyside Police have also said a man has been charged after reports coins were thrown at Anfield during the match.

He will appear at South Sefton Magistrates Court on Thursday.

Anyone with information can contact Merseyside Police via @MerPolCC or Facebook Merseyside Police CC. You can also call 101 or contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously, on 0800 555 111 or via their online form at: https://crimestoppers-uk.org/give-information/give-information-online.