THESE men are wanted in connection with an unprovoked attack on a railway station platform which left a soccer fan fighting for his life in hospital.

The men were "captured" by CCTV cameras as they left the scene after the attack on the Bolton football supporter.

The 47-year-old Manchester United fan, who lives in Bolton, was viciously beaten by the gang of Wanderers supporters as he was waiting on the platform at Chorley station to catch a train home.

The victim, identified only as Steve for fear of reprisals, was punched and kicked so badly he is currently in intensive care at an undisclosed hospital with serious head injuries.

His family is keeping vigil at the father-of-two's bedside as detectives from British Transport police issued the CCTV pictures of the gang of middle-aged men they believe are responsible for the attack.

The images show between 10 and 15 men climbing over the station wall into Clifford Street following the attack and walking away.

Today a close family member of the victim described him as a "kind family man who wouldn't hurt a soul". They said: "He enjoys going to football and has been a keen Manchester United fan all his life.

"This has been a massive shock to all his family and friends, especially his two young daughters.

"Our lives have been turned upside down and we are totally devastated."

Steve had been to the match at the Reebok Stadium and was with three friends in Chorley before the unprovoked attack at the rail station.

Anyone who can identify any of his alleged attackers or has any information about the incident can contact British Transport Police on 0800 405040.