Trouble erupted in the hour before kick-off when a group of Roma fans, who were not dressed in their club's colours, stormed towards the Albert Pub close to Anfield. 

Eyewitnesses reported that the Italians were swinging belts. Some of their fans were also seen to be carrying hammers. 

A 53-year-old man was knocked unconscious and needed urgent treatment from paramedics before he was taken to Walton Neurological Centre. His condition is described as 'critical' and his next of kin have been notified. 

Merseyside Police said nine men were arrested in total for offences also including affray, Section 47 assault, possession of offensive weapons, possession of a controlled drug, criminal damage and being drunk and disorderly.

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.

'During one incident a 53-year-old man, believed to be a Liverpool fan, was assaulted near to the ground during what is believed to have been an altercation between Roma and Liverpool fans. 

'He is currently being treated for his injuries at Walton Neurological Centre, where his condition is described as critical. 

'Two men, aged 25 and 26 years from Rome, have been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder and have been taken to a police station where they will be interviewed by detectives.

He added: 'Detectives are also investigating the use of flares outside Anfield stadium on Arkles Lane prior to the game.  

'We will be reviewing CCTV footage, our own body worn camera footage and working with the club to identify those involved in any of these incidents so we can put them before the courts.

'And I would appeal to anyone who has any information, or mobile phone footage, in relation to any of these incidents to contact us.' 

Liverpool confirmed, despite reports to the contrary, that no stabbing took place when the visiting fans launched the unprovoked attack near the famous Albert pub.

Police eventually arrived on the scene, but not before the group of Roma supporters were chased down the street. 

Liverpool issued a statement last night saying: ‘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.

‘Liverpool FC directs supporters and those in attendance at the game to Merseyside Police’s appeal for information.’ 

Merseyside Police had earlier released a statement on Twitter, which said: 'We can confirm a man has been arrested following an assault near to the Albert public house earlier this evening.

'He has been taken to a police station where he will be interviewed by detectives. The 53-year-old victim is currently being treated for his injuries.' 

Witnesses are being urged to contact Merseyside Police via Facebook or Twitter with details.

It happened before the Champions League semi-final first leg at Anfield, which Liverpool went on to win 5-2. 

The Daily Mail

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