Two Roma fans charged over Sean Cox attack outside Anfield ahead of Champions League clash

Sean Cox, Liverpool fan who was injured. [Photo: Courtesy]

Two men have been charged following the attack on Liverpool fan Sean Cox.

Cox, 53, remains in a criticial condition after being attacked outside Anfield ahead of the Europa League clash.

Filippo Lombardi and Daniele Sciusco were both held over the attack and have been charged.

The pair were initially arrested on suspicion of attempted murder after the sickening attack.

Mr Lombardi, 20, has been charged with violent disorder and wounding/inflicting grievous bodily harm.

Mr Sciusco, 29, also faces a charge of violent disorder, with both men appearing at South Sefton Magistrates Court on Thursday morning.

In a statement, Merseyside Police said: "We can confirm that detectives have charged two Italian men following an incident in Anfield on Tuesday, 24 April in which a 53-year-old man was seriously injured.

"20-year-old Filippo Lombardi was charged with violent disorder and wounding/inflict grievous bodily harm.

"29-year-old Daniele Sciusco was charged with violent disorder.

"Both men have been kept in custody to appear at South Sefton Magistrates Court this morning, Thursday 26 April.

"The victim remains in hospital in a critical condition at Walton Neurological Centre."

Rowdy Roma fans carrying objects. [Photo: Courtesy]

Police believe Cox was knocked to the ground with a belt during violent clashes that marred the game, which Liverpool won 5-2.

Witnesses believe the Irishman was singled out as he was middle-aged, and not part of a larger group.

His grown up children are said to be waiting at home for news.

Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson and midfielder Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain have written heartfelt messages to Sean.

Oxlade-Chamberlain, whose knee injury will keep him out of the World Cup, posted: "This all pales in comparison to how the family of the Liverpool fan badly hurt before last nights game must be feeling. My thoughts are with him and his loved ones.

UEFA are 'shocked by the incident' and could take further disciplinary action - while Roma have slammed their fans for 'bringing shame to their club'.

Police were called to the Albert pub at about 7.35pm and Cox was taken to Walton Neurological Centre where his condition is described as 'critical.'

AS Roma have condemned the 'abhorrent behavior' of some of their travelling supporters, while Liverpool said they were "shocked and appalled" at the incident.