A 20-year-old man has been charged with the attempted murder of West Brom midfielder Ronnie Wallwork.

The 29-year-old, who is currently on loan to Barnsley, was stabbed in the back, hand and stomach in a Manchester city centre bar two weeks ago.

Robert Rimmer, of no fixed address, will appear at Manchester Magistrates' Court today, Greater Manchester Police said.

Wallwork had been enjoying a night out with his girlfriend at the Sugar Lounge bar in Whitworth Street, Manchester, on November 30th when he was attacked.

Bar staff gave the soccer star first aid before he was taken to Manchester Royal Infirmary for treatment.

Wallwork was discharged from hospital at the weekend and is said to be recovering from his injuries.

The former Manchester United player worked his way up through the youth teams at Old Trafford before being sent to Carlisle, Stockport and Royal Antwerp on loan.

He was banned from football for life after allegedly attacking a referee but this was reduced on appeal.

Three years later, Wallwork joined West Brom on a free transfer after making 28 appearances for United.