A teenage boy was left "pouring with blood" after being attacked while playing football.
Police are investigating the attack, which is reported to have happened on Saturday, May 8, on a playing field on Eaton Road in West Derby.
It's believed the 14-year-old was attacked while playing football just before 6pm when he was set upon by four thugs "wearing balaclavas" and armed with bike seats.
The victim's mum posted on social media after the attack and said "two of the males approached him and restrained his legs and then proceeded to lay into him with bike seats!"
The mum added that her son's face was left "pouring with blood" after the attack, and he was taken to hospital by ambulance for injuries to his face, head and spine.
She went on to thank an elderly gentleman walking his dog who tried to help her son.
Merseyside Police said the boy's attackers are believed to be aged between 14 and 16. Two were on bikes and the other two on foot.
It's also thought that two girls were present at the time, one with blonde hair wearing a red coat and a second girl with brown or black hair.
A spokesperson for Merseyside Police said: "We are investigating following reports a 14 year-old boy was assaulted on playing fields at the junction of Eaton Road and North Drive in West Derby.
Keep up to date with what's going on in your area by entering your postcode below
"We were contacted at 6.10pm on Saturday May, 8 following reports that a short time earlier the teenager had been assaulted by four males. It is believed that bike seats were used during the assault.
"All the males are believed to be aged between 14 and 16. Two were on bikes and the other two on foot.
"It is believed two girls were also present at the time – one described as having blonde hair and wearing a red coat and a second girl with brown or black hair.
"The teenager suffered cuts and swelling to his head and face.
"An investigation is underway and CCTV and witness enquiries have been carried out in the local area."
Anyone who has information which could assist the investigation is asked to DM @MerPolCC or @CrimestoppersUK on 0800 555 111 quoting reference 21000295325.
