Liverpool-Roma clash: Italian men charged over Anfield violence

  • Published
Sean CoxImage source, Family handout
Image caption,
Sean Cox remains in a critical condition at Walton Neurological Centre

Two Italian men have been charged over violence before Liverpool's Champions League semi-final against Roma in which a man was left seriously injured.

Filippo Lombardi, 20, has been charged with violent disorder and wounding/inflicting grievous bodily harm and Daniele Sciusco, 29, is charged with violent disorder.

They have appeared in court and were remanded in custody until 24 May.

Sean Cox, 53, described as "amazing", remains in a critical condition.

Neither Mr Lombardi nor Mr Sciusco entered a plea at South Sefton Magistrates' Court and they will next appear at Liverpool Crown Court.

Mr Cox, from Dunboyne, County Meath in the Irish Republic, suffered head injuries outside The Albert pub in Walton Breck Road, next to Anfield stadium, shortly before kick-off on Tuesday.

Eyewitnesses reported seeing a group of Roma fans descend on the road outside Anfield where Liverpool supporters had gathered.

Image source, Alamy
Image caption,
Sean Cox suffered serious injuries close to Anfield stadium on Tuesday evening

Mr Cox's family said he is the "most amazing and wonderful" husband, dad, friend, son, uncle and brother.

"We hope Sean makes a full recovery from the injuries he sustained and that we will all be back together soon as a family in Ireland spending precious time together," they said.

He is being treated at Walton Neurological Centre in Liverpool.

Edoardo Ranalli, 28, from Rome, pleaded guilty at South Sefton Magistrates' Court earlier to throwing a missile onto a football playing area.

He admitted throwing coins and was fined £300 and ordered to pay a £30 statutory surcharge and £85 towards prosecution costs.

He was also banned from attending regulated football matches in England and Wales for five years.

In total, nine men were arrested for various offences at the match.

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