Liverpool fans have Anfield seats moved but investigation finds no evidence of spitting

No evidence was found that any fan had spat at the City dugout

Two Liverpool supporters have had their seats moved away from the dugout area at Anfield after an investigation into an alleged spitting incident took place, with the fans warned by the club about their behaviour. Following the gripping 2-2 Premier League draw at Anfield in October, Manchester City made an official complaint about the incident. City claimed that a Liverpool fan had spat towards their bench on the touchline as a number of City's staff and substitutes celebrated Phil Foden’s stunning second-half equaliser. The Merseyside outfit were quick to look into the accusations, and it was reported that the Reds had sent members of their in-house security team to the City Football Academy to take witness statements. It was suggested that Liverpool were planning to issue a lifetime ban to the supporters in question if the allegation was substantiated, also stating that the club would send all relevant evidence gathered to Merseyside Police to see if criminal charges could be laid. Liverpool’s response to the matter and determination to support the investigation impressed City. https://twitter.com/AnfieldWatch/status/1458077286880747528 However, after reviewing video and CCTV footage, holding discussions with City staff and supporters who were sat in that specific area of Anfield, the Reds found no evidence that any fan had spat at the City dugout as had been alleged. Despite this, they have taken action against the two fans because they were aggressive towards the City bench.

According to the BBC, the full investigation has been passed to the Football Association.

"We have now completed a full and thorough investigation following a complaint of an alleged incident near the dugout area at our fixture against Manchester City at Anfield last month," said a Liverpool spokesperson.

"The evidence gathered was substantial and included statements from Manchester City's backroom staff, supporters, stewards, unredacted video footage and CCTV recordings.

"We have followed the club's official sanctions processes and appropriate actions have been taken based on the evidence gathered and information received from the complainant.

"We would like to thank all parties who have supported this investigation and now consider this matter closed."

Related links:

• Liverpool fans boo Luis Suarez on return to Anfield
• Jude Bellingham laughs off rumours of joining Liverpool
• Liverpool send security team to Man City to gather information on spitting allegations