Shields' family wants the government to intervene

The 19-year-old Liverpool fan from Wavertree was jailed for 15 years after being found guilty of the attempted murder of barman Martin Georgiev.

He had travelled to the resort of Varna after watching his team win the European Champions League in Turkey.

The Right Reverend James Jones planned the visit to pray with him ahead of his appeal hearing, due next month.

He said a reason for the ban had not been given.

I find it hard to believe that the judge could deny Michael a pastoral visit The Right Reverend James Jones

Shields claims he was in bed when a paving slab was dropped on Mr Georgiev's head last May.

Graham Sankey, 20, admitted the attack but his confession was not accepted by Bulgarian courts.

Bishop Jones said: "I find it hard to believe that the judge could deny Michael a pastoral visit requested by his family.

"This will add to the widespread concern in Liverpool and my hope was that my visit would have reassured Michael of our care for him.

"He and his family continue to be in our prayers."

Shields' father, also called Michael, said the family were "very disappointed" with the decision.