England fan Andrew Bache opens his eyes for the first time since attack by Russian thugs

Andrew Bache, 51, was attacked by a group of Russians armed with iron bars on Saturday and suffered a cardiac arrest, extensive brain injuries and a lung infection.

But his brother Dean, 53, has now revealed the Pompey fan was ‘showing signs of improvement’.

Dean, who also lives in Portsmouth, said: ‘The doctor explained that it has only been four days since the incident and it takes time for the body to slowly start to adjust and repair itself and when he’s ready he will wake up.

‘They’re very happy with his heart rate and blood pressure and every day he is showing more signs of improvement.

‘When his son Harry went in last he had to call the nurse in as he began to move his arms about and even opened both his eyes.’

Andrew – known as Pepe to his friends – was left battling for survival when clashes broke out between fans during England’s opening game in Marseille.

French police helped save his life by giving him CPR in the wake of the sickening attack.

The officer’s efforts have since been praised by Mr Bache’s family.

Mr Bache, a Tesco delivery driver, was said to be left with life-changing injuries after the assault.

His son Harry has since flown from Australia to visit his dad in France.

Speaking to The Sun newspaper about his brother’s recovery, Dean added: ‘I’m not ashamed to say I cried for the first time today.

‘I held his hand and he closed his hand and gripped mine.

‘When Harry went in last he had to call the nurse in as he began to move his arms about and even opened both eyes.’

As previously reported in The News, a JustGiving fundraising page has been set up for Mr Bache’s treatment.

So far it has raised almost £20,000 with fans from across the globe digging deep to support the effort.

Football lovers in Portsmouth have also joined the effort.

On Saturday Steve Hudson, landlord of the Shepherds Crook, in Southsea, will be hosting his own fundraiser.

The publican hopes it will tip the fundraiser over the £20,000 mark.

Speaking of Mr Bache’s recovery, Steve said: ‘This is very good news and we’re really happy to hear it. It’s a nice boost for everyone.

‘A lot of people are asking about him. There’s loads of support for him here.’

The fundraiser at the pub takes place at 7pm.

To make a donation, visit crowdfunding.justgiving.com/Pepefrompompey