Northern Ireland

Derry footballer Niall Grace injured in ‘one-punch' attack ‘out of intensive care'

Footballer Niall Grace who was assaulted in Derry at the weekend 
Footballer Niall Grace who was assaulted in Derry at the weekend 

AN Irish League footballer left fighting for his life after a serious assault in Derry has been moved out of intensive care.

Institute footballer Niall Grace (24) suffered a serious head injury in the one-punch assault on Waterloo Street in the early hours of September 11.

In a statement, Institute said that Mr Grace, from the Shantallow area of the city, is now "conscious and talking and able to recognise family and friends".

He has been moved out of intensive care to a main ward at the Royal Victoria Hospital in Belfast.

"While Niall is still showing signs of confusion and frustration, the family are hoping his condition will continue to improve," the club said.

It added: "The Grace family would like to extend their sincere thanks and appreciation for the love and generosity they have been shown during this difficult time."

A 22-year-old man has already appeared in court, accused of the attack on Mr Grace.