Brighton & Hove Albion fans stabbed before Europa match in Rome
- Published
Brighton are due to play Roma at the Stadio Olimpico in the last 16 of the competition
Two Brighton & Hove Albion fans have been stabbed in Rome before their side's Europa League match against Roma tonight.
One fan said he was in a group who were attacked by about six people wearing balaclavas.
He said two friends were stabbed, with one remaining in hospital and he told BBC Sussex he had been punched and kicked.
About 3,500 Brighton fans travelled to Rome for the first leg of the tie.
The wounded fans were taken to separate hospitals for non-life threatening stab injuries after being attacked just after midnight.
Joey Thorpe told BBC Radio Sussex: "We were walking home from a bar and being casual, no chanting and in normal clothes. We just got jumped from behind by about six guys all in balaclavas, all wearing black and hiding their faces.
The group were attacked in the Via Cavour area of Rome
"I got hit in the back of the head a couple of times and then I fell to the floor. They were just kicking me and punching me on the floor.
"I got back to the hotel, luckily, because my injuries weren't awful, and I found out that two of my friends got stabbed."
He said one of his friends was still in hospital with a "bad wound" and would probably miss the game.
"You shouldn't go to a football game and this happens," Mr Thorpe said.
Four people had been hurt in the incident, he said.
Mr Thorpe added: "I was really excited about the game and to spend it in a nice city, but I'm very apprehensive and nervous now. It's shook us up a little bit."
Brighton & Hove City Council leader Bella Sankey said: "This is horrifying. My thoughts are with the victims of this appalling attack."
Caroline Lucas, MP for Brighton Pavilion, said: "Really awful news from Rome on what should have been a special day for Brighton & Hove Albion fans. My thoughts with all affected."
'Be vigilant'
PC Darren Balkham, Sussex Police's dedicated football officer, said he had spoken to the Brighton fans and they were both fine.
He said supporters should follow official safety advice from the club.
There is no indication whether the attackers were Roma supporters.
A Brighton & Hove Albion spokesperson said: "Street crime, including pickpocketing, can take place in Rome. Be vigilant, take sensible precautions and have valid travel insurance."
Brighton fans attending the game are being advised to use a free shuttle service to get to and from the Stadio Olimpico.
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