There will be enormous shock over the vicious attack before Liverpool's Champions League semi final which left an Irish soccer fan in a critical condition in hospital.
Sean Cox (53) has travelled regularly to big games at Anfield and is also a former chairman of St Peter's GAA club in his native Dunboyne in Co Meath.
Witnesses said he was randomly targeted by Roma fans as he stood outside a pub beside the ground on Tuesday night, and suffered serious head injuries after he was knocked to the ground.
Two Italian men have been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder, and supporters from all clubs will hope that Mr Cox is able to make a full recovery.
