Italian club says "small minority of travelling fans brought shame" following altercations outside Anfield on Tuesday; Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson posts message of support to hospitalised Reds fan
Thursday 26 April 2018 07:35, UK
Roma say the actions of "a small minority" of their support in Liverpool on Tuesday have brought shame on the club.
Merseyside Police have arrested two men from Rome on suspicion of attempted murder after a 53-year-old man was seriously injured ahead of Liverpool's 5-2 win in the Champions League semi-final first-leg tie at Anfield.
The Serie A side have sent their best wishes to the Liverpool fan, who is in a critical condition in hospital.
The incident took place outside the Albert Pub - close to Anfield's famous Kop Stand - and UEFA say they are "deeply shocked by the vile attack that occurred".
Roma released a statement on Wednesday morning which read: "AS Roma condemns in the strongest possible terms the abhorrent behavior of a small minority of travelling 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 behaviour 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."
Reds captain Jordan Henderson has also posted a message to the Liverpool fan on his Instagram page.
"The thoughts and prayers of all the players are with the Liverpool fan who is currently very poorly in hospital, after being badly hurt ahead of our game last night," Henderson said.
"He came to watch a football match and support our team - the only result that matters to us now is that he recovers and can return home to be with his family and loved ones.
"You'll Never Walk Alone."
Merseyside Police chief superintendent Dave Charnock said: "The vast majority of the 52,500 fans attending the game were well behaved and went to watch a good game of football.
"However, a minority of fans from both Liverpool and Roma were involved in isolated pockets of disorder in the city centre and near to the ground."
