SAINTS academy player Joe Sharratt is "progressing well" in hospital after he was assaulted in Manchester city centre over the weekend.

Officials from Saints have visited Joe in the neurology ward at Salford Royal Hospital today and reported they were "pleased to find him sat up in bed and recovering well".

Joe was involved in an assault in Manchester, outside the Factiry nightclub in the early hours of Sunday.

Joe is expected to remain in hospital for the next couple of days but the prognosis is good and he is progressing well.

A statement from Saints said: "The player, his family and the club have been overwhelmed by well-wishers and messages from across the rugby league community.

"We have been truly moved by the support from all areas of the game and we would like to thank everyone who has contacted us at this distressing time.

"Your support really is appreciated by us all."