POLICE are closing in on a man they think was responsible for an assault which left a father critically injured in hospital.

Detectives probing the attack in Huntroyde Street, Tonge Park, on Saturday morning have identified a suspect they would like to speak to.

A 42-year-old man was left with a serious head injury after the attack at his home, while a 23-year-old woman was also hurt, but suffered less serious injuries.

The man is still in hospital in a stable condition two days on from the attack.

It is understood that the victim and the man being hunted by police are known to each other.

A police spokesman said: "We have got a man who we wish to speak to about this offence but he is still outstanding.

"The victim is still in hospital and is stable."

Police described the assault as serious, and forensic investigators combed the house for evidence on Saturday and Sunday.

The front of the house, on the corner with Entwistle Street, is still cordoned off today.

Florence Scowcroft, who also lives in Huntroyde Street, said: "It was a dramatic scene to wake up to.

"We saw the police car pull up and then saw all the police and ambulance in the back street.

"He kept himself to himself, and has been in there for about three to four years now.

"I would have been tucked up in bed by the sounds of it when it happened.

"There is always something going on round here."

Neighbours said the victim, who lives alone at the house, has a son who no longer lives with him.

A resident said: "I was asleep at the time but I did get woken up by a lot of car doors slamming.

"There has been a lot of hassle at that house. I have been here for two years, and they have had their windows put through a few times."