A man has been released on bail after a stabbing outside a Mitcham pub over a game of football which left another man in hospital with serious injuries.

The 31-year-old victim of the stabbing at the King’s Arms pub, in London Road, is recovering from his injuries in hospital.

He is said to be in a serious but stable condition after being taken to hospital after the stabbing at 8.40pm on Sunday, May 1.

Police confirmed he remained in hospital on Wednesday, May 4, and said his condition had improved.

A 27-year-old man was arrested on May 3. He has been interviewed by police and released on bail until Wednesday, July 6.

The stabbing is believed to have happened after an argument over a game of football in the beer garden of the pub.

A cleaner at the King’s Arms, Peter Hall, said the victim had been taking part in the kickabout when an argument started with another man.

Mr Hall said: “They both left the pub separately. It was about an hour later that the stabbing happened.

“He was stabbed on the street outside the pub.”

Witnesses reported a large area in Mitcham town centre being cordoned off by police following the stabbing.

Police believe a number of people saw what happened on Sunday night.

Anyone with information is asked to call detectives at Merton CID on 020 8649 3057 or via. To remain anonymous, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.