Former Town loanee Paolo Vernazza has been stabbed in the leg after disturbing a burglar at his home in north London. Vernazza was detained in hospital after the incident which saw fellow ex-Arsenal youth player Andrew Douglas receive more severe injuries.

Douglas, currently with Ryman League Premier Division Gray Athletic, received chest injuries and is currently said to be critical but stable.

The two disturbed a burglar at Vernazza's Islington home who stabbed them both before getting away.

A Scotland Yard said: "The Burglary Squad in Hackney are appealing for witnesses to a burglary and GBH at a house in Portland Rise, N4.

"The suspect stabbed the tenant in the leg and his friend in the chest. He then made off on foot, dropping several items he had stolen."

Vernazza is currently with Watford, but had a short spell on loan at Town, replacing the injured Kieron Dyer, in late 1998 while an Arsenal player. He played two games for Town including a derby against Norwich City.

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