A former Norwich City star was stabbed and robbed in an unprovoked attack by a masked and armed gang.

Andre Wisdom, who now plays for Derby County, suffered stab wounds to his head and backside while getting out of his car at arouund 4.30am on Sunday.

He was attacked by four men wearing masks and armed with knives.

The gang also stole his designer watch during the attack.

The attack happened in Toxeth in Merseyside while the 27-year-old was visiting a relative.

The defender was taken to hospital but is in a stable condition.

An investigation is underway and house-to-house and CCTV enquiries have been carried out.

Det Sgt Richie Shillito said: “I would appeal to anyone who was in the area around Beaumont Street around 4.30am who saw anyone or anything suspicious to contact us.

“Similarly I would ask for anyone who captured anything significant on dash-cam footage to get in touch as they may have information which is vital to our investigation.

“The investigation is in the early stages but we are determined to find the people responsible for this assault and robbery and I would urge anyone who knows anything to come forward.”

Derby said in a statement: “Derby County Football Club can confirm that Andre Wisdom has been the victim of an unprovoked assault and robbery.

“He sustained injuries which resulted in him being admitted to hospital, where he is in a stable condition.

“Merseyside police are investigating and the club will focus its efforts on supporting Andre and his family. Therefore we will not be making any further comment at this time.”

A spokesperson for the club shared a picture of him alongside the message: “Get well soon, Wis.”

Wisdom Joined Norwich from Liverpool on a season-long loan in July 2015.

He made his City debut in the 2-1 win at Rotherham in the Capital One Cup. He then came on as substitute to make his Premier League debut in the 3-0 defeat to Southampton.

Wisdom made 14 appearances as the Canaries were relegated from the top flight and then joined Austrian side Red Bull Salzburg on loan before going to Derby.

A group of Derby County fans have already raised hundreds of pounds in order to create a flag to show their support.

On their GoFundMe page, fans have said: “Andre Wisdom was involved in a stabbing whilst visiting relatives in Merseyside, fellow Derby fans & I would like to raise money so we can make a flag to be put into Pride Park to show him our support as a club.

“Any donation is welcome.

“We wish Andre a speedy recovery & our thoughts are with his family at this time.”

Anyone who witnessed the incident is asked to DM @MerPolCC or contact @CrimestoppersUK on 0800 555 111 quoting reference 20000377145.