There will be no flags on the Kop for Liverpool’s Europa League quarter-final first-leg clash with Atalanta at Anfield on Thursday in protest at rising ticket prices.

Liverpool announced a two per cent increase in the cost of season tickets and members’ tickets for the 2024-25 season last week, sparking an angry reaction from supporters’ groups with Spirit of Shankly accusing Liverpool of failing to engage in “meaningful consultation” and warning that loyal fans are “slowly being priced out of regular attendance”.

Spion Kop 1906, which organises the banners and flags on the Kop, have decided to take action to make a point to the club’s owners.

“We are disappointed in the football club’s decision towards ticket prices for 24-25,” the group’s statement read.

“In response, there will be no flags on the Kop for Thursday night’s game. Unlike the club’s own approach, this has been agreed in consultation with other fan groups.

“We will pay our respects to the 97 with Hillsborough flags only at this weekend’s league match (against Crystal Palace on Sunday), as always with it being the closest game to April 15.

“There is still a chance for the club to hold some positive dialogue with the Supporters’ Board in time for Saturday’s meeting. Until then the supporters have one message: No to ticket price increases.”

Liverpool blamed the rise on the fact that operating costs for Anfield have risen by nearly 40 per cent over the past six years.

GO DEEPER

We need to talk about Mohamed Salah

(Michael Regan/Getty Images)