Liverpool will consider handing a lifetime Anfield ban to any supporter found guilty of spitting at the Manchester City bench during Sunday's Premier League clash.
And there is the prospect of any guilty party facing potential criminal charges after City lodged an official complaint a Liverpool fan allegedly spat at someone on Pep Guardiola's backroom staff during the 2-2 draw.
Liverpool have subsequently been working with City staff to gather statements and assess the unredacted video footage of the incident, with a number of witness statements having already been collected from those seated around the dugout area.
The official sanctions process of the club means they can implement a sanction of up to a lifetime ban from Anfield should anyone be found guilty.
A Liverpool spokesperson said on Monday evening: “Following a complaint of a serious alleged incident near the dugout area at Anfield during the second half of Sunday’s game against Manchester City, we are conducting a full investigation, working with all relevant parties including Manchester City, to gather evidence from individuals who witnessed the incident as well as analysing all available video footage.
“The evidence collected to date is substantial and, if requested to do so, will be handed to Merseyside Police given the potential for criminal charges.
“This case will also be subject to the Club’s Official Sanctions Process.
“Anfield is our home and we will ensure it is a safe, enjoyable environment for everyone attending and will not allow unacceptable isolated behaviour to impact on our Club’s values and principles.”
The dugout at Anfield is currently surrounded by an exclusion zone the Premier League confirmed last week will be in place for the remainder of the campaign, meaning supporters are sat further away from the two dugouts than normal.
