Everton fan injured before Hajduk Split clash after vicious attack by hooligans in Croatia
Reports suggest fan collapsed while taking refuge in a bank after thugs set upon small group of Toffees faithful
AN EVERTON fan was injured before the Europa League clash with Hajduk Split after being attacked by hooligans.
Reports is Croatia claim a small group of Toffees supporters were set upon by thugs just after midday.
The fans fled to a nearby bank to escape the violence where concerned staff alerted the police.
One of the Everton fans received a heavy blow to the head and reportedly collapsed, with an ambulance being called.
Fortunately the injury is not believed to be serious despite the supporter needing medical attention.
The attackers were chased by riot police and arrested having fled in the direction of the stadium.
Yesterday a fan was told to take off his blue polo shirt by a Croatian gang, while another was apparently hit with a bottle.
Violence marred Everton's first-leg triumph against Split and the club issued a travel warning to the expected 1,400 away fans.
They were advised not to display flags in any public areas or wear club colours around the city.
Everton's 2-0 win at Goodison Park was delayed for four-minutes by bottle-throwing hooligans.
Referee Ivan Kruzliak had to lead both sets of players into the Goodison Park dugouts after chaos broke out among the travelling Croatian support in the 32nd minute.
Seats were torn out and missiles were launched at home fans and onto the pitch, while shocking footage showed one yob swing a punch at a Goodison Park steward.
The unruly travelling support also kicked down advertising boards and some streamed on to the field.
In addition, a ball-boy was saved by a quick-thinking steward, who managed to drag the kid away in the nick of time.
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