The lawyer representing two Roma ultras charged with attacking a Liverpool fan has hit out at the Merseyside Police.

Filippo Lombardi was charged with violent disorder and wounding/inflict grievous bodily harm, while Daniele Sciusco was charged with violent disorder. Liverpool supporter Sean Cox is in an induced coma and in critical condition.

“There was terrible policing of public order outside the stadium," lawyer Lorenzo Contucci told AGI news agency.

“The competent authorities had been warned, but there was not a single policeman following these fans from the city centre to the stadium. They were happily allowed to do whatever they wanted.

“Seeing as the serious error was made by the local police, if Roma are to be punished, then I think UEFA also need to look at Liverpool for the senseless approach to public order.

“Within 28 days, the two fans will go to trial, but the accusation of attempted murder has been dropped. In case they are found guilty, their sentences will depend on whether the injuries sustained are considered voluntary or not.

“I spoke to the two lads and they both deny the charges. At the moment, one has been charged with violent disorder and the other with inflicting grievous bodily harm."