Teenager filmed being attacked by Manchester bouncers is Saints academy player

SAINTS academy player Joe Sharratt has suffered head injuries after being assaulted in Manchester in the early hours of Sunday morning.

Sharratt had been one of a number of Saints players representing Lancashire against Australian Schoolboys in Manchester on Saturday.

Greater Manchester Police have issued an appeal for information after a video of the shocking incident has been watched on Twitter by more than one million people.

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Stills from the @Dontfollowstu's video which has been widely shared on Twitter

At the start of the video, Joe can be seen being knocked to the floor before the bouncers surround another man.

The bouncers can be seen repeatedly punching him before he falls to his hands and knees.

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Police were called to Factory nightclub at 3.20am on Sunday to reports a man had been assaulted on Princess Street.

Officers attended and an 18-year-old man was taken to hospital to be treated for a serious head injury.

He remains in a stable condition, police say.

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An investigation has been launched and officers are appealing for anyone with video footage to get in touch.

Stills from the video which has been widely shared on Twitter

Chief Inspector Cherie Buttle of GMP’s City of Manchester Division, said: “We’re aware that there are a number of videos circulating on social media and I cannot stress how important it is that those with footage make contact with us.

“With a mobile phone at everyone’s fingertips, filming something is often the first thing people think to do but please, pass this onto us to so we can fully investigate this matter.

“While it was early in the morning, this happened on a busy street so there may have been people who have seen something but have not yet been in touch with us.

“You can talk directly to our investigation team or pass on any information through Crimestoppers.”

Anyone with information should contact police on 0161 856 3221 quoting reference number 396 of 02/12/18 or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

A statement released by Saints this morning read: "We understand GM Police are investigating the matter and therefore we cannot make any further comment at this time.

"Joe is of impeccable character and is an upstanding member of our Academy system. He represented Lancashire Schoolboys against Australian Schoolboys with distinction on Saturday and was hoping to represent England next weekend.

"He is a top academic achiever with a very bright future ahead of him alongside his rugby league prowess.

"Our welfare team are now in contact with Joe’s family and we will offer any assistance we can at this distressing time.

"Understandably, our thoughts are now with Joe and his family."