A shocking video circulating online shows a gang of around seven youths launching a savage gang attack on a young man on a garage forecourt
The footage appears to have been recorded on a mobile phone at around 9.40pm, shortly after the final whistle of Liverpool's evening fixture against West Ham United on Wednesday. Police are appealing for witnesses after the incident.
The video begins by showing the attackers squaring up to the 18-year-old victim on Oakfield Road, with the stadium visible in the background.
Shouts of "leg it lad" and "you little muppet" can be heard as the gang approach the man. The victim backs away onto the forecourt of an Esso petrol station where he is set upon by around seven young men, dressed in dark or grey clothing.
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The group throw punches at the victim who trips and falls to the floor as he tries to back away. The youths surround him while several launch kicks to his body. As he tries to protect himself one of the men, wearing a woolly hat, takes a running kick at the victim's head which appears to render him immediately unconscious.
The gang disperses while a member of the public tries to come to his aid. The incident took place at a busy and popular meeting point for Liverpool fans, and hundreds of fans are visible in the background
Merseyside Police said the victim was taken to hospital to be checked over. A spokeswoman said: "At around 9.40pm we received a report that the victim and his friends were walking along Oakfield Road when a group of males approached him and punched him in the face causing him to fall. He was then further assaulted by the group.
"Members of the public intervened and the offenders made off from the scene. The victim suffered bruising and swelling to his eye, and police took him to hospital to get checked over.
"Officers are investigating the incident, including examining CCTV footage, and anyone with any information is asked to contact police.
"If you have any information on this incident please contact our social media desk on Twitter @MerPolCC or Facebook ‘Merseyside Police Contact Centre’ with any information with reference 22000771129."
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