Liverpool fan killed in Italy road tragedy before AC Milan clash as clubs pay tribute

Tributes have been paid to an Irish Liverpool fan who was killed in a road tragedy just hours before his beloved team were due to take on AC Milan in the Champions League.

51-year-old Philip Dooley, an Irish native who has been living in Liverpool, was heading to Milan to attend the game which Liverpool went on to win 3-1. In the early hours of Tuesday morning as he attempted to reach his hotel, he was struck by a vehicle close to Orio al Serio Airport, which is located between Seriate and Bergamo in Lombardy.

Liverpool FC paid a classy tribute to Philip as club representatives as well as from opponents AC Milan laid a wreath of flowers on his seat at the San Siro ahead of kick-off. They also released a statement saying the club is "deeply saddened by the tragic passing."

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

READ NEXT: 'In the name of Jesus Christ' - Gardaí stunned by what man was doing in back of van

"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," the statement concluded.

Merseyside Police are also helping with the investigation into his death and have said in a statement that two witnesses to the tragic incident are also speaking to Italian police.

Fellow Liverpool supporters have been paying tribute. One post online before the game read: "YNWA Philip Dooley. Condolences to his family. Let's go win this match in his honour."