FOOTBALLER Graeme Hay was recovering at home in Evesham this week following a vicious cup tie assault which left him needing surgery.

The centre half was smashed in the face by a member of the opposing team during a Worcestershire Junior Cup match in Broadway at the weekend.

Now police have asked fans to turn witness to help convict the attacker who left the 21-year-old Scot needing microsurgery for a wound to his mouth.

The incident happened off the ball during the second half of Broadway United's first round clash with Kidderminster-based Cookley Social Club. The home team had conceded a corner but the goalkeeper collected the ball safely.

"I was just going back up the pitch when this guy came over and punched me straight in the face," Graeme said.

"There were no words exchanged and we had not had any previous contact during the game since I am centre half and he was playing centre half for the other team.

"I think he said something afterwards like 'have I got the right one?' but I am not sure."

Referee Jeff Widdett confirmed he had had no hesitation in sending the other player off, but said there had been no trouble on the field before the incident. "My report has been completed and has been sent to the FA," he said.

Steve Wright, a Broadway United official, said: "This was a wholly unprovoked and brutal assault and I am delighted it is being dealt with seriously."

Cookley Social Club secretary Steve Bullock said the club did not condone the actions of their player.

He said the player was expecting a three-month ban and a stiff fine.

No decision had yet been taken on whether he would turn out for the club this weekend.

Graeme was taken to Worcestershire Royal Hospital where doctors performed microsurgery and inserted nine stitches in his lip.

He is due to return to the hospital in several weeks' time to have one tooth surgically removed and another strengthened.

Police have taken statements from the match officials and players on both sides, but they also want spectators to come forward.

Spokesman Richard Bull said: "This was a most vicious attack and, in view of its seriousness, we would ask anyone who was watching the game at Broadway on Saturday afternoon to get in touch with us at the earliest opportunity."

Contact PC Paul Brown of Evesham police on 08457 444 888.