Liverpool fans stand trial over Bulgaria assault
Two Liverpool FC fans went on trial in Bulgaria today accused of attacking and injuring a Bulgarian man in a bar brawl, court officials said.
Michael Shields and Anthony Wilson (both aged 19) were accused of injuring a 25-year-old Bulgarian during a fight on May 29 in the Golden Sands resort.
Court spokeswoman Elena Bangieva said the hearing in the district court of the port city of Varna was expected to last two days.
The two Britons were staying in Varna after watching their team win the Champions League cup final in neighbouring Turkey.
Shields is alleged to have hit barman Martin Georgiev over the head with a brick, causing possible brain damage. He is charged with premeditated attempted murder and aggravated hooliganism, and could be jailed for 20 years if convicted.
Wilson is alleged to have hit and kicked the man as he lay on the ground. He is charged with hooliganism and possession of cannabis, and could be jailed for 15 years.
Both men deny the charges.
A third Briton also implicated in the incident, Bradley Thompson, had earlier received a suspended six-month sentence.
