Oldham Athletic star Hallam Hope is in hospital with serious injuries following an alleged assault at the hands of an unnamed Chesterfield player.
The 28-year-old was allegedly attacked following his side's 2-0 defeat by Chesterfield in the National League, in which he played the full 90 minutes at Boundary Park.
Oldham have notified the police about the incident and provided CCTV footage. The club suspects the midfielder will be out for some time while he recovers from his injuries.
A spokesperson for the Latics released the following statement: "Oldham Athletic is sorry to have to report that our player, Hallam Hope, was the victim of a vicious assault on Saturday evening.
"The assault took place in the staff car park following the game against Chesterfield. Hallam sustained serious injuries, which required hospital treatment and he will be out of action for some weeks.
"The matter has been reported to the Police and we have provided CCTV footage in relation to the incident. Whilst the investigation is continuing Oldham Athletic will make no further comment on the incident.
"The club is supporting Hallam and will continue to do so. We wish him a speedy recovery from a dreadful experience."
A spokesperson for Chesterfield said: "Following an incident which took place after Saturday’s game at Oldham Athletic, we are aware of an allegation relating to an un-named Chesterfield player.
"We are assisting Greater Manchester Police with their enquiries. As this is an ongoing investigation, no further comment will be made at this stage."
A Greater Manchester Police spokesperson said: "At around 1.50pm on Sunday 4 September 2022, we received a report of an assault at Boundary Park on Saturday 3rd. An investigation is underway."
Joe Quigley opened the scoring for league-leaders Chesterfield in just the first minute against Oldham on Saturday, after an error by goalkeeper Magnus Norman.
Jeff King made it two seven minutes later with Oldham fearing the scoreline could get out of control.
But the home side fought their way back into the game, with Mike Fondop a threat and Hallam Hope chipping just over before the Latics lost Dan Gardner to injury.
Jack Clarke missed a glorious Chesterfield chance and Branden Horton hit a post before half-time. Quigley twice went close and Oliver Banks shot just wide from distance.
