Liverpool have begun an investigation into the alleged spitting incident involving a Liverpool fan in their Premier League draw with Manchester City on Sunday. The Reds have promised to work with Merseyside Police to find the person responsible.
Visitors Manchester City claim that a member of Pep Guardiola’s backroom staff was spat at during the second half and lodged a complaint immediately after the game.
According to Sky Sports, officials from Pep Guardiola’s side had video footage of the incident, which they have since handed over to the relevant authorities.
Jurgen Klopp’s side are ‘furious’ about the event and are prepared to ban the culprit from their stadium for life.
The Anfield club is also prepared to press charges as spitting deliberately and directly at another person is deemed as a criminal offence.
A spokesperson for Liverpool said the club was gathering evidence from individuals and are analysing available videos.
“Following a complaint of a serious alleged incident near the dugout area at Anfield during the second half of Sunday’s game against Manchester City, we are conducting a full investigation, working with all relevant parties including Manchester City, to gather evidence from individuals who witnessed the incident as well as analysing all available video footage.” the spokesperson said.
“The evidence collected to date is substantial and, if requested to do so, will be handed to Merseyside Police given the potential for criminal charges. This case will also be subject to the Club’s Official Sanctions Process.
“Anfield is our home, and we will ensure it is a safe, enjoyable environment for everyone attending and will not allow unacceptable isolated behaviour to impact on our Club’s values and principles.”
This is the latest incident of bad behaviour that caused embarrassment for Liverpool during games against City. In 2018, City’s bus was destroyed by some Liveroopl supporters on their way to a Champions League quarter-final match at Anfield. City maintained that nobody was ever arrested for the damage caused, although Liverpool offered to fix the coach.
