Halesowen Town’s leading goalscorer had his cheekbone smashed in an unprovoked street attack.

Matt Lewis had two metal plates inserted in his cheek after the assault in Coventry, where he lives.

The former Kidderminster Harriers striker, who has scored 18 goals, now faces a battle to appear at Wembley on FA Cup Final day on May 19.

The 6ft tall forward, who celebrated his 34rd birthday last Monday, won a VIP trip to appear at the stadium after being named player of the round for scoring all four goals in the club’s 4-2 first qualifying round win at AFC Telford in September.

The incident happened at 6.30pm on Friday just after he got off a bus and was texting his girlfriend to say where he was.

Mr Lewis was rushed to hospital, where he has spent the last two days. He was released today but won’t be able to play football again this season.

Halesowen’s general manager Colin Brookes said: “He said he felt a violent blow to the side of his face.

“He was knocked out and, when he came around, he realised his cheekbone had been smashed, and he has got some damage to his nose.

“It was a completely un-provoked attack. He was just minding his own business.”

Lewis scored 18 goals by Christmas but hasn’t found the net since after injuries and suspensions. He first made his name at Kidderminster Harriers.