A MAN was rushed to hospital after being repeatedly stabbed in the back in a vicious attack in Southampton.

Police are investigating the attack, which happened at about 8.10pm on Saturday outside the Tesco Express on St Mary Street.

The 29-year-old victim, who was last night still in hospital, was riding a bike outside the shop when three men assaulted him and left him with serious injuries.

Two of the attackers were said to be black while the third was white, and all three ran off in the direction of Golden Grove after the assault.

Detective Inspector Nick Plummer said: "We are reviewing CCTV to obtain better descriptions of the suspects and to establish what weapon was used during the assault.

"I'm keen to stress that we have reviewed the circumstances and are not currently linking this incident to enquiries relating to Operation Windless.

"There is also no information to suggest a wider risk to the community as this appears to be a targeted attack.

“These types of assaults usually relate to a specific grievance, for example to the supply of illegal drugs in the city.

"I'd like to appeal to the local community to help us bring the offenders to justice. Assistance from local residents sends a robust message to those that carry out violent crime that this type of behaviour will not be tolerated.

“Those responsible will be pursued and held to account for their actions".

Anyone with information can contact police on 101 quoting reference number 44160190670 or call Crimestoppers anonymously 0800 555111.