The 28-year-old had his designer watch and jewellery stolen by two men as he got out of a taxi in Didsbury in the early hours of Sunday.

It is understood the attackers had not specifically targeted the former England international, but struck while he reportedly disputed his taxi fare.

A Greater Manchester Police spokesperson said: "Police were called following reports of the robbery.

"On arrival they found a 28-year-old man whose watch and jewellery had been stolen.

"He had not been injured during the incident but the offenders had threatened him.

"Inquiries are ongoing."