POLICE have named a man wanted in connection with a serious knife assault in Greenock.

Officers urgently want to trace Kieran Murphy, 27, as they investigate an attack that occurred in the early hours of New Year's Day in Merlin Lane.

It saw a 26-year-old man struck on his face and leg with a blade and rushed to Inverclyde Royal Hospital.

Officers previously released an image of their suspect in April, saying he 'should not be approached', but have now taken the step of publicly naming him.

A Police Scotland spokesperson said: "Anyone able to assist in establishing his whereabouts or who knows of anyone who would be able to assist is asked to contact Greenock Police Office via 101 or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, where information can be given in confidence."