Liverpool fan, 51, dies in Milan ahead of Champions League game

A Liverpool fan has died in Milan ahead of the club's Champions League match against Inter Milan.

The 51-year-old man, named as James Phillips, was found dead in his hotel room on Tuesday night.
The cause of death is not yet known, but police are not treating it as suspicious.

Phillips was part of a group of Liverpool fans who had travelled to Milan for the match.
They are understood to have been drinking in a bar near the hotel before returning to their rooms.

A friend of Phillips said he had been in good spirits earlier in the evening.
"He was just a lovely bloke," he said.
"We can't believe this has happened."

Liverpool FC have released a statement expressing their condolences to Phillips' family and friends.
"The club is deeply saddened by the passing of one of our supporters," the statement said.
"Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends at this difficult time."

The death of Phillips has cast a shadow over Liverpool's preparations for the match against Inter Milan.
The team are due to fly to Milan on Wednesday, and it is not yet clear whether Phillips' death will affect their travel plans.

The Champions League match between Liverpool and Inter Milan is due to take place at the San Siro stadium on Wednesday night.
Liverpool are the defending champions, and they will be looking to make a strong start to their defence of the trophy.