Two Roma fans have been arrested by Merseyside police after leaving a Liverpool supporter in critical condition with head injuries.

The incident occurred near the Albert pub around 10 minutes before the Champions League semi-final kicked off.

“Merseyside Police can confirm that two men, aged 25 and 26 years from Rome, have been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder after a 53-year-old man was seriously injured before the Champions League semi-final game this evening (Tuesday, 24 April 2018)," read a statement.

“The man was arrested inside the ground after officers carried out a number of proactive inquiries in a bid to identify those involved in the incident.

“Officers were called to the Albert public house at about 7.35pm following reports that a man, believed to be 53 years from Ireland, had been seriously assaulted.

“Paramedics attended at the scene and the victim, who suffered a head injury, was taken to Walton Neurological Centre where his condition is described as critical.

“Officers are particularly keen to speak to anyone who witnessed the incident and have information which could help them with their inquiries to contact them immediately.

“Forensic examinations have been carried out at the scene and CCTV footage from the area will be reviewed in a bid to identify the offender/offenders.

“Witnesses report that the victim was hit with a belt and then fell to the ground. Paramedics treated him at the scene and he was taken by ambulance to Walton Neurological Centre, where he is being treated for a head injury.

“His condition is currently described as critical and his next of kin have been informed.

“The two men arrested have been taken to a police station where they will be questioned by detectives."