Southampton footballer Dan Seaborne badly hurt in attack

Image caption, Dan Seaborne was found outside a Southampton nightclub in the early hours

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 he was found with "serious and potentially life-threatening" injuries and that two men, aged 35 and 29, had been arrested.

Southampton General Hospital said it was a "police matter" but that Seaborne was now in a serious but stable condition.

The area around the nightclub has been cordoned off.

A police 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."

Image caption, The area around the nightclub has been cordoned off

Southampton FC said they could confirm Seaborne had suffered "a significant head injury and is in hospital under close observation".

They said his condition was "currently stable" and he was "showing signs of improvement".

Exeter City have sent the player their best wishes.

Seaborne began his career at the club before moving to the Championship side in January 2010.