Striker shot three times in car

A 26-year-old footballer is "lucky to be alive" say police after he was wounded in the chest, stomach and leg when he was shot in his car on Tuesday.

Police were called to Fonthill Road in Kirkdale, Liverpool after residents reported gunfire at about 2345 BST.

Anthony Wright, a striker Conference North side Vauxhall Motors, was in his car when he was shot three times by a masked man through the window.

Police said his injuries are serious but not life threatening.

Witness interview

Superintendent Alan Cooper said Mr Wright was "lucky to be alive."

On Wednesday detectives were interviewing his girlfriend, who witnessed the shooting.

The area around the scene of the shooting has been sealed for a full forensic examination.

Police have stepped up high visibility patrols in the area.

Mr Wright recently joined Vauxhall from Hyde United and before that played for Aberystwyth.

It is understood his car was found burnt out in a football car park several months ago.

Police say they are unable to rule out a link with other shootings in the city.