LONDON, Nov. 24 (Xinhua) -- Police in Liverpool said Friday 26 German nationals who were arrested after a mass street brawl broke out in the city have been released.
Detectives are still questioning nine people arrested on suspicion of violent disorder offences after the violent brawl, including five other German nationals, a Spanish national, and an Iranian national.
Two local men are also in police custody for questioning, with one of them, a 23-year-old man, charged with attempted murder and causing grievous bodily harm.
A German remains in hospital in Liverpool and is said to be in a critical condition with serious injuries.
The violence came Thursday night in the city center's Concert Square area when the city was busy with football fans for the Europa League clashing at Everton's Goodison Park stadium with Italian team Atalanta.
Local media reported eye witnesses describing violent clashes between the visiting fans and bar doormen, with furniture and bottles being thrown, and some of the Germans were seen to be wearing knuckle-dusters.
A major gathering point around Concert Square was cordoned off as police worked to restore order.
"We will take strong action against anyone whose actions risk the good reputation our city center has and bring people responsible for incidents such as this to justice," said Merseyside Police Detective Chief Inspector Cheryl Rhodes.
CCTV, witness and forensic enquiries are being carried out by detectives to establish the full circumstances of the incident.
