ROME – Two Roma fans have been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder following a vicious altercation in Liverpool after the first-leg of their Champions League semi-final, police said. A 53-year-old Irish national, Sean Cox, is in a critical condition, suffering severe brain damage and remains in hospital in a coma.

 A heavy mob of Roma ‘ultras’ reportedly appeared in a pub in Liverpool, armed with belts and hammers. Filippo Lombardi, 21, and Daniele Sciusco, 29, were arrested on Wednesday having been identified by the Roma police officers sent to Britain to assist with security.

 AS Roma have strongly condemned the “vile behaviour” of a small group of its supporters, saying that they have “brought shame on the club.” They are now cooperating with Liverpool FC, European football’s governing body UEFA and authorities to discuss the matter further and take disciplinary measures.

 Whilst Mr Cox remains critically injured in the Walton Neurological Centre in Liverpool, fears are growing of further trouble next week in Rome. Over 5,000 Liverpool has are expected to travel to the Italian capital for the decisive leg next Tuesday.

 A statement from the Italian club read that their “thoughts and prayers are with the 53-year-old Liverpool fan in hospital and his family at this time.”

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