Lazio condemn physical attack on captain Immobile

The statement said the attack was the result of "incitement to hatred carried out and supported by some of the media and journalists, who spread words of hatred towards Ciro Immobile through their social media channels."

Immobile has been accused on social media of being involved in the departure of coach Maurizio Sarri by turning his back on him.

Sarri resigned on Wednesday after four defeats in all competitions for a Champions League last-16 exit and ninth place in Serie A.

The Scarlott agency said Immobile has asked his lawyers to take legal action because "incitement to hatred is a criminal offence that must be punished."

Lazio condemned the incidents in a statement late Friday.

"Lazio expresses its full solidarity with its captain Ciro Immobile and his family for the disturbing and unacceptable attacks suffered in recent days," the club said.

"Sport, and consequently its ethical value, must remain as such: any act of verbal or physical violence must receive unanimous condemnation, firmly and without justification."