ROME – Two Brighton fans have been stabbed in Rome ahead of the clash with Roma in the Europa league on Thursday.

 Joey Thorpe, 27, was mugged and two of his friends, 28 and 29, were stabbed in the thigh on Via Monte Polacco, near Via Cavour, just after midnight on Thursday. The police were called after the two victims went into a nearby restaurant, asking for help.

 They had been attacked by six masked men who also stole their wallets and passports. The attackers have not yet been identified and any connection with Roma has not yet been confirmed.

 Rome’s police have increased security ahead of the game, especially for the 4000 Brighton fans who are in the city.

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