Former Manchester United player stabbed in nightclub

LONDON, Dec 1 (Reuters) Former Manchester United player Ronnie Wallwork was in hospital after being stabbed in a nightclub, police said today.

Wallwork, who is currently on loan at struggling second division side Barnsley, suffered stab wounds to his stomach, hand and back in an incident at the Sugar Lounge bar in Manchester city centre late night.

The 29-year-old was taken to hospital with non-life threatening injuries and his condition was said to be stable.

''Detectives believe this was not a random attack and are making further enquiries to trace the offender,'' Greater Manchester Police said in a statement.

The midfielder made his debut for Manchester United in 1997 and was a peripheral figure at the club until 2002 playing just 28 times for them until he left for West Bromwich Albion on a free transfer.

He was named the club's player of the year for 2004-05 but although he was given a new two-year contract in August, he was allowed to go out on loan at the end of last month.

He has also played for Carlisle United, Stockport County and Bradford City.

REUTERS SAM BD1653