A MAN was critically injured after being stabbed in Dudley in the early hours of this morning (Sunday).

The 21-year-old was taken to Russells Hall hospital suffering multiple stab wounds following an incident at around 4.15am at the Earl of Dudley pub on Wellington Road.

The injured man was taken to hospital by friends who found him on a bench in the car park of the pub.

A Hilltop man aged 21 and a 23-year-old from Brierley Hill were arrested at Russell's Hall on suspicion of attempted murder. They continue to help police with their inquires.

Detective Inspector Warren Hines, from West Midlands Police CID, said: "A young man is in very serious condition in hospital. He has undergone surgery for multiple wounds including one to his heart.

"I need to understand what happened this morning and speak to anyone who may be able to help.

"At this stage, we're working on the theory that this was a fight which got out of hand as opposed to a random attack on a stranger.

"If this is the case, it is vitally important that the other person or people involved call me immediately so that they can put their side of the story to me. If they don't come forward now, they can expect a visit from my team to their home or workplace in the very near future.”

The pub car park has been sealed off as the investigation continues and police are making house to house enquiries and studying CCTV.

Anyone who was at the pub last night and not yet spoken to police is asked to call police by dialling 101 or the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 who will pass on the information anonymously.