Brighton supporters have been attacked in the Italian capital ahead of Thursday's Europa League tie with Roma.
Brighton in Rome for Europa League tieFans attacked before gameSupporters taken to hospitalWHAT HAPPENED?
A masked gang stabbed and robbed two Brighton fans in the Italian capital in the early hours of Thursday morning, as reported by a. The fans received stab wounds to their legs and were taken to hospital. Wallets and identity documents were also taken by the attackers and police are now investigating the incident.
AdvertisementWHAT THE POLICE SAID
PC Darren Balkham, liaison officer for Brighton, wrote on X: "We are aware of the incident reported in Italian media last night. Have spoken to both Brighton fans who are ok. We reiterate the advice of the club published on the pre match info."
THE BIGGER PICTURE
Brighton are in Rome for a first ever European knockout tie and face last season's beaten finalists. The Seagulls did offer advice to supporters ahead of the game, warning about street crime and pickpocketing in the city. Fans were also told to carry identification, use the free shuttle buses provided and told "Italian police advise it is better to avoid flags and colours in the city."
GOALWHEN DOES THE GAME TAKE PLACE?
The game between Brighton and Roma is scheduled to kick-off at 17.45 UK time at the Stadio Olimpico. The return will take place on Thursday, March 14.
