Last night, before the Champions League fixture between Liverpool vs. AS Roma, a minority of Italian visitors ambushed home fans outside a pub, badly injuring a man who is in hospital after suffering serious head injuries.
Liverpool, AS Roma and UEFA have issued statements, condemning the attack.
"UEFA is deeply shocked by the vile attack that occurred ahead of Liverpool FC v AS Roma and our thoughts are with the victim and his family," UEFA's statement reads.
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"The perpetrators of this ignominious attack have no place in 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."
UEFA are 'deeply shocked' following last nights vile and cowardly act, despite the clubs wretched past of attacking English supporters.
Not one but SIX separate incidents involve AS Roma fans inflicting damage to fans representing Manchester United, Chelsea, Liverpool, Spurs and Middlesbrough since 2001.
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When will UEFA impose some sort of sanction?
In 2001, six Liverpool supporters were attacked. In 2006, Boro fans were targeted, just like United and Arsenal fans in 2007 and 2009.
Two AS Roma fans were slapped with a five-year ban after a violent attack on a group of Spurs supporters in 2012.
And Chelsea fans were also targeted in this campaign.
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Surely, it's about time Europe's footballing governing body take the matter into their hands?
While local police and authorities have an obligation to protect fans, and UEFA may feel that what happens before games is out of their control, these disgusting incidents are occurring during their competition.
Meanwhile, Liverpool and AS Roma have released the following statements.
"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.
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"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."
"AS Roma condemns in the strongest possible terms the abhorrent behaviour 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," AS Roma's message reads.
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"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 the hospital and his family at this time."
53-year-old Sean Cox is fighting for his life following last nights wild scenes, with two AS Roma fans arrested on suspicion of attempted murder.
Liverpool travel to Rome next Wednesday for the second-leg, and some of their away fans will be, rightfully, fearing for their safety.
Featured Image Credit:Topics: Liverpool, Football News, Football, AS Roma, Champions League
