A homeless man is in hospital after being attacked with a hammer in the city centre.
Friends said the attack took place after the victim tried to break up a fight in Piccadilly Gardens on Friday night.
The 29-year-old was taken to hospital with chest injuries which police say 'are not thought to be life-threatening'.
A 27-year-old man has been arrested and remains in custody for questioning.
One friend said the victim was attacked close to Market Street Metrolink stop while trying to act as a 'peacekeeper'.
READ MORE:
He added: "There was a fight and he tried to stop it.
"I was there two minutes before it happened.
"He's a good lad."
Another witness said: "There were about seven of them fighting in the Gardens.
"I was on Market Street. I saw them all running over and someone shouted 'He's got a knife'.
"He's a decent lad. I just hope he's alright."
Shudehill and Market Street Metrolink stops were closed for around three hours this morning while the police cordon was in the place.
A Greater Manchester Police spokesperson said: "At about 10.05pm on July 16, CCTV operators spotted a man being attacked with a hammer in Market Street, Manchester.
"Officers went to the scene and gave first aid to the victim, a 29-year-old man, who was taken to hospital with chest injuries that are not believed to be life threatening.
"A 27-year-old man has been arrested and remains in custody for questioning."
