Roma have released a statement to 'strongly condemn' an attack on a Liverpool supporter ahead of the Champions League fixture between the two clubs on Tuesday night.

Less than an hour before kickoff at Anfield, a group of Roma fans launched an unprovoked attack on Liverpool supporters who were situated outside of The Albert pub, which is in close proximity to their Merseyside ground.

Video footage and images have since emerged on social media, and Merseyside Police have said that a 53-year-old has been left in a critical condition after a blow to the head.

Roma have now moved to acknowledge the incident, saying that the attack - by a "small minority" of fans - had brought "shame" on the club.

A statement read: "AS Roma condemns in the strongest possible terms the abhorrent behavior of a small minority of travelling fans who brought shame on the club and the vast majority of Roma's well-behaved supporters at Anfield after getting involved in clashes with Liverpool supporters before last night's fixture.

"There is no place for this type of vile behavior in football and the club is now cooperating with Liverpool Football Club, UEFA and the authorities.

"The club's thoughts and prayers are with the 53-year-old Liverpool fan in hospital and his family at this time."

Two men - believed to be from Rome - have been arrested in connection with the incident.