Man, 22, in 'serious' condition after punch from behind in Stevenson Square, Northern Quarter

manchestereveningnews.co.uk:

A man was in a 'really serious' condition in hospital today after he was punched from behind in Manchester city centre. Detectives investigating the early hours attack in the Northern Quarter have issued an image taken from a CCTV camera of a man they want to speak with.

Greater Manchester Police said the force received calls reporting an 'altercation' in Stevenson Square at around 2.20am on Sunday. Two groups are said to have been involved.

Police said the man, aged 22, was punched from behind, causing him to fall to the ground where he remained. He was taken to hospital with injuries described by the force as 'serious'.

Detectives are appealing for witnesses or anyone with information to come forward.

In a statement, GMP said: "At around 2.20am we received a report of an altercation in the Stevenson Square area of the Northern Quarter. A 22-year-old man was taken to hospital, where he remains with serious injuries.

"Enquiries have established that, during the altercation between two groups, the victim was punched from behind and falls to the floor, where he stays. Police would like to speak to the person pictured in the CCTV image as part of their enquiries."

Detective Inspector Geoff Machent said: "The victims injuries are really serious – we wish him well and our thoughts are with his loved ones. This incident happened in a location which is bustling in the early hours of the morning so we know it’s likely revellers and taxi/ designated drivers are likely to have witnessed it.

"I ask anyone with information to share it with us. We do have CCTV of the incident but, as ever, we would welcome any mobile phone or dash cam footage which may assist us."

Anyone with information should share it via 0161 856 6049 or