Kevin-Prince Boateng attacked in Gelsenkirchen after visiting son during winter break in German championship
Kevin-Prince Boateng attacked in Gelsenkirchen after visiting son during winter break in German championship Reuters

Extrovert footballer Kevin-Prince Boateng was rushed to hospital after being beaten up in the street in Germany on Christmas day.

The former Portsmouth forward currently playing in Germany for Schalke, was attacked in the city of Gelsenkirchen. The German football championship is currently on a winter break and Boateng had just stepped out of his ex-wife's home after visiting his son, when it happened.

German paper Bild reported that the 26-year-old received injuries to the neck, back and ribs, but that these were not serious. It is understood a single attacker carried out the assault.

Ghana international Boateng reported the incident to police. A spokesman said: "There are indications that the motive for the crime is connected to the personal affairs of the 26-year-old."

"The man was mildly injured. Criminal investigators have begun their work," it said.

Boateng made headlines around the world in January when he marched off the pitch during a match for AC Milan. He had been subjected to a torrent of racist abuse by a hardcore of right-wing fans from a minnow club named Pro Patria.