A FORMER footballer has been jailed for attacking a man on a night out.

Andy Feeley, aged 47, of Ainsworth Lane, Radcliffe, was yesterday sentenced to 22 months after admitting joining two others to kick and punch the victim in Ramsbottom last October.

Feeley, who signed for Bury in 1989 and used to manage Ramsbottom United, was drinking in a town centre pub with friend Matthew Barrow, aged 29, and a 17-year-old youth, who cannot be named for legal reasons.

Bolton Crown Court heard how the three got into an argument in the pub with two men, one of whom was John Whitton.

Shortly afterwards, Feeley and his two accomplices assaulted Mr Whitton in the street, kicking and punching him.

Mr Whitton required hospital treatment for wounds to his head and knee. He also required dental surgery.

Recorder Graham Knowles QC, said: “You ran the risk of killing that man. That didn’t happen in this case but the risk makes this a very serious case indeed.”

Feeley also has to pay £1,500 to the victim within six months.

Barrow was sentenced to 20 months in prison. The youth was given a 12-month detention and training order.