Two men wanted in connection with the attack. Pic: British Transport Police

Police have released CCTV images of two men wanted in connection with a brutal attack on a man as he got off a tram in Croydon on August 4.

The victim, a 32-year-old man from Norbury was left with serious head injuries and a fractured cheekbone after refusing to hand over his lighter to his attackers at East Croydon tram stop.  The British Transport Police say he is now in a serious but stable condition.

The man was with his mother and girlfriend when he had stepped off a tram at around 1.05am. A group of up to five youths approached him and demanded his lighter. When he refused, he was beaten to the ground and left unconscious.

Two boys aged 14 and 17, from Wimbledon, were arrested on suspicion of robbery and grievous bodily harm near Dingwall Road shortly afterwards.

Detective Sergeant Bob Stokoe, based at Croydon BTP at Addiscombe Road said:  “This was a vicious and brutal attack on a man who had absolutely no chance of defending himself.

“Our investigation into this callous attack is continuing and after examining CCTV footage we’ve now identified two further men we want to speak to.”

“If you recognise either of them and think you can name them, please get in touch.”

If you saw anything or have any information please call the BTP  free on 0800 40 50 40 quoting reference B3/LSA.  All calls will be treated in strict confidence.

Alternatively, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.