Liverpool 'deeply saddened' after lifelong fan is tragically killed in road traffic accident ahead of Champions League tie with AC Milan

The 51-year-old Reds fan travelled to Italy to attend their opening Champions League match in Milan. The incident happened in Bergamo, around an hour's drive from Milan, and the Premier League side has issued a statement following the news.

A statement on Liverpool's website read: "We are deeply saddened by the tragic passing of our supporter Philip Dooley, following a road traffic accident in Bergamo in the early hours of this morning.

"Philip was a lifelong Liverpool fan who had travelled to Italy to be at tonight’s Champions League game against AC Milan.

"Our staff in Milan are working with the local police and consulate, and continue to provide support to other fans impacted by this devastating incident.

"The thoughts and prayers of everyone connected to the club are with Philip’s family, friends and fellow supporters at this extremely difficult time.

"Rest in peace, Philip."

Liverpool announced on social media that the players would wear black armbands in tribute to Dooley.

After suffering their first defeat under new coach Arne Slot at the weekend, the Merseyside team will hope to bounce back by getting a good result at San Siro on Tuesday.