ROMA CUP BAN CALL
Fury over Anfield attacks
ROMA last night faced calls to be banned from Europe “for years” after a brutal attack at Anfield.
Liverpool fan Sean Cox was fighting for his life following an ambush by Italian hooligans.
The brutal thugs, armed with belts and hammers, pounced outside a pub next to the ground minutes before Tuesday evening’s kick-off.
A group of around 20 Italian men in hoodies and masks are said to have charged towards fans, including women and children.
Mr Cox, 53, was knocked down and hit his head.
The dad-of-three, from Dunboyne, County Meath, Ireland, was in critical condition at a brain trauma unit on Merseyside following surgery last night.
His wife, Martina, has flown to Liverpool. Two men from Rome, aged
25 and 26, were arrested on suspicion of attempted murder and remain in custody.
Detective Paul Speight said: “Witnesses report that the victim was hit with a belt and then fell to the ground.”
An eyewitness, a 35-year-old man, said: “I have never seen people using belts before, I’ve never seen that kind of trouble before a match.”
Nine people were arrested, aged between 20 and 43, for offences including affray, assault, possession of offensive weapons, possession of a controlled drug, criminal damage and being drunk and disorderly.
They were five Italian men and four English men.
One Twitter user commented: “Has to be sanctions on Roma. Behind closed doors next week, or throw out now, & a big European ban.”
Another said: “Tragic and pathetic behavior from Roma fans yesterday. 5 year ban from Champions and Europa League for the club would be in it’s place.”
A spokesman for Europe’s governing football body said: “Uefa is deeply shocked by the vile attack and our thoughts are with the victim and family.” Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson tweeted: “The thoughts and prayers of all the players are with the Liverpool fan who is currently very poorly in hospital, after being badly hurt ahead of our game.” The Star Says: P6