DETECTIVES have spoken to several witnesses as part of an investigation into an alleged racist attack on teenage footballer Samuel Gibson.

The Star revealed last week how the 17-year-old had three front teeth knocked out when he was punched in the face following a six-a-side soccer game in Sutton.

The A-level student from Sutton Leach allegedly suffered racial abuse and claims that after the sickening assault opposition players cruelly taunted: “Pick your teeth up off the floor!”

Now police in St Helens have confirmed they have interviewed a number of witnesses - including a number of players and the match referee - as part of an investigation into the incident.

However, no arrests had been made as the Star went to press.

Promising footballer Samuel, who has had trials with Manchester United and Leeds, was playing for Sutton FC Officials in an organised league event.

The teenager, who is of mixed race, claims racist comments were hurled at him during the game with one opposition player allegedly saying: “You shouldn’t even be in this country anyway.”

Leisure Leagues, who organised the game, say they have conducted their own ‘internal investigation’.

They add that the team alleged to have committed the offence, whose identity the Star is withholding while the police probe is ongoing, has been expelled from the competition.

Meanwhile, the Football Association has said anyone guilty of racism in football should be punished severely.

An FA statement read: “Racism has no place in football and the FA is committed to eradicating it from our game.

“We expect anyone found guilty of racial abuse to be given the strongest possible punishment.”

Anyone with information is asked to call the St Helens hate crime investigation unit on 0151 777 6063.