SAINTS star Sia Soliola suffered facial injuries when he was allegedly assaulted in St Helens town centre during the early hours of this morning (Monday), the Star understands.

Police were called to outside the Imperial Bar in Ormskirk Street at 2.20am today (Monday) after 25-year-old Soliola and a 19-year-old man were found hurt.

Soliola was taken to Whiston Hospital by ambulance and three people were later arrested on suspicion of assault and violent disorder.

Merseyside Police would not confirm the identity of the victim, however, in a statement this morning they did say a 25-year-old man from St Helens was initially classed as being in “a serious but stable condition” with “serious facial injuries”.

Speaking later on Monday afternoon, a force spokeswoman said the man had now been released from hospital and was recovering from his injuries.

A Merseyside Police statement read: “The three men arrested, a 32-year-old from Speke, a 23-year-old from Lymm in Cheshire and a 24-year-old from Chester have been taken to a police station where they will be interviewed by officers.”

An area of the street outside the bar was sealed off by police today along with another small area at nearby benches, where an officer stood guard.

It is likely detectives in St Helens, who are leading the inquiry, will be reviewing CCTV footage of the surrounding area from the early hours.

Saints initially declined to comment on the matter, however, they went on to issue a statement tonight, which confirmed: “Sia Soliola has been injured as a result of an alleged assault.”

The extent of the injuries suffered by the Kiwi international – and how long he could potentially be out of action for – is not clear.

Saints will hold their weekly press conference at Langtree Park tomorrow (Tuesday) where Royce Simmons is likely to face questions from the rugby league media about Soliola’s health.

Many observers regard Soliola as one of Saints strongest performers so far this season and he is a favourite with supporters.

Meanwhile, rugby league supporters were quick to send get well messages to the player’s Twitter account.

Anyone with information is asked to contact officers on 0151 777 6075 or Crimestoppers 0800 555 111.