POLICE are investigating an on-the-pitch clash which left a footballer with a broken jaw.

York City player Chris Beardsley's jaw was broken in two places during a match against Grays Athletic in the Blue Square Premier League.

The off-the-ball clash was with Jamie Stuart, 19, just minutes into the game.

Beardsley, 23, needed a one-hour operation at Derby hospital on Sunday night and received three plates in his jaw.

Essex Police are now taking statements from witnesses to Saturday's incident which was not thought to be captured on video footage.

Stuart, a former England under-21, is waiting to hear if he will face charges.

Beardsley travelled back to York with his teammates after Saturday's match.

However he had an operation in Derby on Sunday.

Essex Police spokeswoman, Donna Vesey, said: "We were contacted on Monday, September 24, following reports of an assault at a football game between Grays Athletic and York City on Saturday afternoon involving a 23-year-year footballer from Derby and a footballer from Kent. Inquiries are continuing."

Stuart conceded a penalty and was sent-off after a linesman spotted an offence.

York City won the match 2-0.