Anfield top brass have vowed to ban any fans who were involved in the throwing of a flare into the away end from the Anfield Road upper tier. Merseyside Police are also investigating the incident, which left a nine-year-old boy requiring medical treatment.
Sunday saw an impeccable observation of a minute’s silence for the 30th anniversary of the Hillsborough disaster by all who were gathered at Anfield.
However, there were allegations of homophobic chants sung by Reds supporters towards Chelsea fans, which Liverpool have rightly condemned.
Despite all of the vile, racist and Islamphobic chants directed at Mo Salah, homophobia is also an unacceptable offence and has no place in society, let alone football.
Statement in full. Strong and worthy of praise from #LFC – this stuff shouldn’t be swept under the carpet. pic.twitter.com/81hAjiiA1o
— David Lynch (@LynchStandard) April 16, 2019
The statement in full:
“Liverpool Football Club would like to thank the players, staff, officials and supporters of Chelsea for their compassionate marking of the Hillsborough anniversary during our fixture at the weekend.
“As ever, the overwhelming majority of those present at Anfield ensured the occasion was a fitting tribute.
“Regrettably, however, a smoke device was thrown into the away section during the second half and we are actively working with Merseyside Police to investigate the matter.
“Any person found to have committed this offence will be banned from our ground.
“The club is also concerned about a chant from some of our fans, specifically referencing Chelsea, as inappropriate and offensive.
“We would urge all Liverpool supporters to respect each other and stop such chants as they do not reflect the inclusivity that the club stands for.
“As a proud member of Stonewall’s Diversity Champions programme, we are committed to LGBT equality across all areas of the club and have contacted them and our own affiliated LBGT group Kop Outs for further support.”
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