Football fans sought over attack

Police are keen to speak to this man about the incident

Two men were beaten unconscious by two other men who had been out celebrating with Premier League footballers in Bournemouth, police have said.

The incident took place following Portsmouth Football Club's FA Cup win against Manchester United on 8 March.

Police believe at 0420 BST the next day two fans punched and kicked two men unconscious near the Fresco takeaway on Old Christchurch Road.

Officers want to trace a man caught on CCTV who may have vital information.

A 27-year-old London man has been arrested in the case and released on bail.

Inquiries continuing

Both victims needed hospital treatment to cuts and bruises.

Det Con Adrian Turner, of Bournemouth CID, said: "The two suspects were celebrating in Bournemouth with a group of Portsmouth Premiership footballers.

"There is a strong possibility that the two suspects travelled south with the players from the Old Trafford football ground in Manchester.

"I've made enquiries with Portsmouth Football Club in an attempt to identify the unknown man but despite this I have yet to establish his identity - and my enquiries will continue until I know who he is.

"I'm now releasing pictures of a man that I'd like to speak with in connection with these serious assaults in the hope that anyone who recognises this man will contact me."

Portsmouth FC spokesman Gary Double said: "I can confirm we have been contacted by the police in relation to this matter and are assisting with their inquiry.

"All we can say is that it is not true that these people would have travelled down with the players on the coach."