Liverpool and Manchester City issue joint statement condemning incidents
The Premier League clubs had asked for fans to respect the rivalry ahead of the fixture, which saw City win 3-2.
Liverpool and Manchester City have issued a joint statement condemning the “unacceptable” incidents after Thursday night’s Carabao Cup clash at the Etihad Stadium in Manchester.
The Premier League clubs had asked for fans to respect the rivalry ahead of the fixture to calm tensions between the clubs.
Talks have been held to improve relations between both sets of fans and a letter was sent to all supporters on both sides asking them to report incidences of “unacceptable behaviour”.
The last match between the sides at Anfield was marred by offensive graffiti about Hillsborough in the away section and allegations of chanting about the 1989 disaster that took the lives of 97 fans.
Both Premier League sides have said that reported incidents from Thursday’s match will be investigated and reported to the police.
“Liverpool FC, Manchester City FC and the chairs from our supporter groups have worked together in recent weeks to remind fans of our expectations and both clubs would like to thank the vast majority of fans for their behaviour at last night’s Carabao Cup match at the Etihad Stadium,” the statement released on Friday said.
“It is however hugely disappointing that there were a number of incidents during last night’s match that are wholly unacceptable. These incidents will be fully investigated, reported to the police and the individuals who are found to be responsible will be subject to the sanction process of their respective club.
“Liverpool FC and Manchester City FC are fully committed to working together to eradicate these issues from our fixtures. They have no place in football.”