A footballer needed hospital treatment after allegedly being beaten up in a row involving a woman.

Hartlepool United striker Adam Boyd is thought to have suffered cuts to his stomach and foot, and bruising to his face and legs, in the late-night attack by two men.

The 23-year-old had played in the club's 1-0 home defeat against Tranmere Rovers hours before the 2.30am incident at a house on Hartlepool's Bishop Cuthbert estate.

Yesterday, he was said to be recovering at home.

Club officials said they hoped he would be back today and fit for selection for Saturday's trip to Bradford City.

It is thought £1m-rated Boyd was attacked after two men arrived at the house and had a brief row with the player and a woman.

The woman, said to be in her early 20s, called police and she and Boyd went to the University Hospital of Hartlepool for treatment early on Sunday.

Hartlepool Police are appealing for anyone with information to come forward.

Detective Sergeant Matt Mason said: "An allegation of assault was made by a female who claimed she was attacked by her ex-partner.

"Two people were arrested some time later for being involved with the alleged assault and they have now been interviewed and released on police bail, pending further inquiries."

Detective Inspector Tony Riordon said: "We would appeal for anyone who saw or heard anything at about 2am on Sunday to come forward as they could hold vital information to this investigation."

Two men, aged 22 and 21, were questioned after the allegations were made, and are to return to Hartlepool police station next month.

Anyone with information is asked to call police on (01642) 302126.