Liverpool have criticised those supporters who ignored advice to “celebrate at home” by taking to the streets on Friday night.

Despite being urged by Merseyside Police, Liverpool Football Club, the City Council and the Spirit of Shankly supporters’ group to stay away from Anfield on Wednesday night, large numbers defied authorities to join in the celebrations as Liverpool lifted the Premier League trophy, despite no fans being allowed inside the stadium.

Nine people were arrested for defying the police’s dispersal order, which sought to ban fans from gathering around the stadium.

In a statement, Liverpool thanked supporters who stayed at home and said they were “disappointed” by those who did not.

The club said: “Liverpool Football Club would like to thank those supporters who stayed at home to celebrate the team lifting the trophy last night, protecting their loved ones and our city from the ever-present threat of this pandemic. We are, however, disappointed with the scenes outside Anfield last night and that more supporters did not heed the celebrate at home advice.

“The club and our city partners Merseyside Police, Liverpool City Council and Spirit of Shankly, have worked in-step for the past eight weeks to consistently encourage fans to support the team from home and we would like to thank them for their continued support and collaboration in the lead-up and throughout football returning behind closed doors.

“Thanks should also go to those from CleanEvent and Liverpool Streetscene Services, who did incredible work this morning cleaning up Anfield and surrounding areas.

“Our local community is the heart of our club and their co-operation and patience as our neighbours, as well as the engagement of our local ward councillors, the Safety Advisory Group and emergency services also deserves our gratitude.

“As we have said before, when it is safe to do so we will celebrate, until then protecting our city is the priority.”

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