Ronnie Wallwork (L) catches Liverpool's Luis Garcia
© AFP/File Andrew YatesLONDON (AFP) - The 29-year-old was in a stable condition in hospital after being attacked late Thursday in Manchester, northwest England, and his injuries are not believed to be life threatening.
He was repeatedly stabbed in what detectives believe was not a random attack.
"Shortly after 11:30pm (2330 GMT) on Thursday, police in Manchester were called to the Sugar Lounge bar on Whitworth Street West," following reports that a man had been stabbed, Greater Manchester Police said in a statement Friday.
"The man was taken to a Manchester hospital with stab wounds to his hand, stomach and back. It is not known what type of weapon was used.
"The man remains in a stable condition and his injuries are not thought to be life threatening.
"Detectives believe this was not a random attack and are making further enquiries to trace the offender."
Championship side West Brom signed the Manchester-born midfielder from English Premiership giants United in July 2002 on a free transfer.
Wallwork joined Championship strugglers Barnsley on loan on November 23.
"The club are deeply concerned about Ronnie and, although we do not know the full facts or circumstances surrounding the incident, we wish him a full and speedy recovery," the south Yorkshire club said.
"Ronnie has been a model professional during his time at Barnsley and we will be liaising with West Bromwich Albion as to the best course of action."
Wallwork was the Baggies' player of the year and helped keep West Brom in the Premiership in the 2004-2005 campaign, although they were relegated the following season.
He made 28 appearances for United between 1994 and 2002 and hit the headlines in 1999 while on loan at Belgian side Royal Antwerp.
Wallwork was handed a life ban in Belgium by the country's football union for manhandling a referee, a sanction which was reduced on appeal to three years, two of them suspended.
He was reported to have grabbed referee Amand Ancion by the throat.
©AFP