Two Liverpool fans have been stabbed in Naples, Italy ahead of tonight’s match against Napoli.
A police spokesman confirmed that two men, aged 27 and 52, were taken to hospital with injuries on Wednesday night. Their conditions are not thought to be life-threatening.
Three Napoli citizens have been arrested.
Policing is thought to have been tightened up ahead of tonight’s game to keep supporters from each club separate.
A spokeswoman for the British Foreign Office said, “We can confirm the hospitalisation of two British nationals in Naples, Italy on 20 October. We are providing consular assistance.”
Merseyside Police say they have had reports of six attacks on Liverpool supporters in the city over the last 24 hours.
The Guardian reports, “A separate incident where a gang of youths armed with knifes approached English supporters in the city has also been reported. The ANSA and Apcom news agencies say that the overnight clashes in downtown Naples involved thrown rocks and led to three arrests, and also injuries to four or five Italian fans, including a restaurant owner.”
Liverpool have released this statement for fans who have gone over for the game:
Naples Police have suggested that all Liverpool supporters should upon their arrival in the city make their way to the Port area, which is called VARCO PISACANE (Harbour Gates). You can take bus 601 from the square outside the central train station (Piazza Garibaldi) which stops outside the Hotel Cavour. After disembarking at the stop “Duomo” you can walk down to the sea. There are plenty of bars and restaurants in this area of Naples and Liverpool supporters will be made welcome.
Buses will be laid on by the City of Naples to transport Liverpool supporters from Varco Pisacane to the stadium from two hours before kick-off.
You should in keeping with Italian laws keep your passport on you at all times as you may be asked to show such before being allowed into the stadium.
You are advised to stay near to the main areas of the city and not to wander off down side streets and alleyways, staying if possible in groups.
Napoli vs Liverpool in the Europa League is due to get underway at 6pm this evening at the San Paolo stadium.
