Southampton footballer Dan Seaborne has suffered serious head injuries in an attack outside a nightclub in the city.
Seaborne, 24, was found collapsed on the pavement outside Junk nightclub, London Road, in the early hours.
The defender, who signed from Exeter last year, was treated by paramedics before being taken to hospital.
Hampshire Constabulary said the man was found with "serious and potentially life-threatening" and that two men, aged 35 and 29, had been arrested.
A spokesman said: "Investigating officers are trying to establish the circumstances that led to the man sustaining the injuries.
"Although they have identified a number of witnesses they are appealing for others to come forward."
This is not supposed to happen. I hope he survives and come back playing ball.
How stupid can people be? I hope they get life time in prison! And my thaughts to Seaborn, his family and collegues.
Thinking of you Danny.
ECFC Big Bank