Liverpool fan 'critical' after attack ahead of Roma game

Merseyside Police have confirmed that a man has been left in a 'critical condition' after being attacked ahead of the Liverpool's Champions League fixture with Roma on Tuesday night.

Shortly before kickoff, it was reported that a group of Roma supporters had launched an unprovoked attack on Liverpool fans outside of The Albert pub, and video footage of the incident soon emerged on social media.

The footage and the images which have since followed have shown the attackers to be carrying various objects - including belts and knives - and it has been revealed that a 53-year-old male is currently in a 'critical condition' in hospital.

Det Insp Paul Speight said: "Witnesses report that the victim was hit with a belt and then fell to the ground. His condition is currently described as critical and his next of kin have been informed."

Two men - both believed to be from Rome - have been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder of the man, who is from Ireland.

Liverpool have strongly condemned the attack, saying that the club are "shocked and appalled" at what occurred close to Anfield.