Liverpool have announced that the police are investigating anti-Semitic tweets sent in response to the club's message to their Jewish supporters.

Last week, the Merseyside outfit sent a tweet saying: "Liverpool FC would like to wish all our Jewish supporters around the world a Happy New Year."

After receiving a number of "vile and anti-Semitic comments" after posting the message, Liverpool have begun working with anti-discrimination group Kick It Out and the authorities to track down the people behind the abuse.

Kick It Out professional game manager Keeley Baptista told Liverpool's official website: "We are appalled by the anti-Semitic messages that were sent in response to Liverpool FC's tweet wishing their Jewish supporters a Happy New Year. We immediately informed the police, via its online reporting facility True Vision, for them to investigate."

Liverpool added in a statement: "The club has passed on all information to the police and if those who are found guilty of posting these comments become known to LFC they risk a lifetime ban from Anfield."

The club have been forced to delete the original tweet due to the abusive responses.