Liverpool have confirmed they are working with Merseyside Police's investigation after a nine-year-old Chelsea fan needed first aid as a result of a flare thrown at Anfield on Sunday.
The youngster was treated by paramedics at the stadium midway through the Reds' 2-0 win after the flare was launched into the away end shortly after Sane Mane's opening goal.
The Chelsea fan Young Chelsea fan treated by paramedics after flare thrown into away end during Liverpool match where the travelling supporters were sitting in the lower section of the Anfield Road.
On Monday, Merseyside Police revealed that they are looking into the matter further and Liverpool have since stated that will be imposing strict sanctions on anyone found to be guilty of the offence.
Liverpool also urged supporters to steer clear of the homophobic chants that are regularly aimed at the Londoners when they travel to Anfield.
However, the club did salute Chelsea and their supporters for their part in ensuring the dignified remembrance of the Hillsborough disaster on the 30th anniversary of the tragedy.
A statement read: "Liverpool Football Club would like to thank the players, staff, officials and supporters of Chelsea for their compassionate marking of the Hillsborough Anniversary during our fixture at the weekend.
"As ever, the overwhelming majority of those present at Anfield ensured the occasion was a fitting tribute.
"Regrettably however, a smoke device was thrown into the away section during the second half and we are actively working with Merseyside Police to investigate the matter.
"Any person found to have committed this offence will be banned from our ground. The club is also concerned about a chant from some of our fans, specifically referencing Chelsea, as inappropriate and offensive.
"We would urge all Liverpool supporters to respect each other and stop such chants as they do not reflect the inclusivity that the club stands for.
Young Chelsea fan treated by paramedics after flare thrown into away end during Liverpool match
"As a proud member of Stonewall’s Diversity Champions programme, we are committed to LGBT equality across all areas of the Club and have contacted them and our own affiliated LBGT group Kop Outs for further support.”
A Merseyside Police statement read: "Merseyside Police can confirm that we are investigating after a flare was reported to have been thrown during the Liverpool FC vs Chelsea FC match yesterday afternoon (14th April)."
"The incident was reported to us at 5.40pm, shortly after LFC scored their first goal, that a flare was thrown from the upper section of the Anfield Stand.
"Following this, at around 6.20pm, officers received reports that a young Chelsea fan, believed to be nine years old, had been taken to the first aid centre where he was treated by St Johns Ambulance staff after suffering a panic attack as a result of the flare.
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"At this stage, it is not clear who threw the flare, however investigations are ongoing and police are urging anyone with information to come forward quoting log 322 of 14th April."
