Greater Manchester Police are investigating Liverpool’s team coach being damaged after their 4-1 defeat at Manchester City on Saturday.
While there were also offensive chants referencing the Hillsborough disaster aimed at Liverpool fans by City supporters during the game, GMP opened the investigation into the attack on the bus as it left the Etihad Stadium after the game.
A GMP statement said: “Following yesterday’s Premier League fixture between Manchester City and Liverpool, GMP received reports of criminal damage to Liverpool FC players’ coach.
“It is reported the incident took place at approximately 3.40pm on Ashton New Road close to the junction of Rowsley Street. There were no reports of any injuries and the Liverpool club coaches were able to continue with their journey. An investigation has now been launched by Greater Manchester Police to identify and locate the offenders.”
City said they would support the investigation and on Saturday evening also condemned the chants, which included references to the Hillsborough disaster of 1989 which caused the deaths of 97 football fans.
A Football Association spokesperson said: “We are very concerned about the rise of abhorrent chants in stadiums that are related to the Hillsborough disaster and other football-related tragedies. These chants are highly offensive and are deeply upsetting for the families, friends and communities who have been impacted by these devastating events, and we strongly condemn this behaviour.
“We support clubs and fans who try to stamp out this behaviour from our game. We also support the excellent work of the survivor groups who engage with stakeholders across football to help educate people about the damaging and lasting effects that these terrible chants can have.”
The FA is unable to take any action regarding the chants, it is understood. The Premier League said on Saturday that it is “treating the issue of tragedy chanting as a priority and as a matter of urgency”.
