Liverpool fan Sean Cox has returned home for good for the first time in nearly two years following the life-changing injuries he suffered at Anfield.
The dad-of-three had travelled from Ireland with his brother Martin to watch the Reds' Champions League semi-final first leg against Roma in May 2018 when he was subjected to an unprovoked attack by away fans outside the Kop on Walton Breck Road.
Simone Mastrelli was jailed for three-and-a-half years for the incident which left Sean in a coma.
Sean was left with serious brain injuries has needed extensive rehabilitation since the assault and requires ongoing care from his wife and family.
After treatment at the Walton Centre in Liverpool, Sean was transferred to a Dublin hospital and has been receiving care in a number of medical institutions in Ireland and England.
Now, almost two years after their living nightmare began, The Irish Examiner reports that Sean's family have announced on social media that he has been able to return to the family home in Dunboyne for good.
They said: “Sean’s journey over this time has been challenging and difficult, however today is an important and positive milestone for Sean and his family."
"While Sean will continue to require full-time care and ongoing rehabilitation for the foreseeable future, today is a definitely a day to enjoy."
Sean's wife Martina said: “This is a day we as a family have been looking forward to for a long time. While Sean still has a long road to travel, having him home with us is an incredibly important step as we come together as a family unit again.
"I can’t thank enough those who have helped Sean along the way over the past two years. Without a doubt this support has made today possible.
"In particular, I would like to thank the incredible staff in Marymount Care Centre in Lucan for the care and support they have provided to Sean over the past number of months.
“At a time when staying at home takes on new meaning for all of us, its clear that there is no other place that Sean would rather be."
Sean's brother Peter also praised the incredible support the Cox family have received from many people including both Liverpool FC and Roma along with Everton's Seamus Coleman and many others.
He said: "The support for the family has been massive.”
