A knife victim remains in hospital a week after he was stabbed during a murder bid on New Year's Day as police step up their hunt for the attackers.

The 40-year-old man was walking along a street in Clydebank, West Dunbartonshire, in the early hours of Friday when he was approached and attacked by two men.

The blade attack happened at around 5.30am on Onslow Road, near to the railway bridge at Drumry Railway Station. The victim was left with life-threatening conditions and police say the attack "could very easily have been a murder."

Detectives have now stepped up their search for the culprits and are appealing for a couple seen in the area at the time to come forward.

The victim remains at the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital where medical staff describe his condition as serious.

One of the suspects for the attack is described as male, white, 6ft to 6ft 1in tall, 20 to 23 years of age, very slim build, clean shaven and had short brown hair with a crew cut. He was wearing a grey jumper possibly a hoodie. There is no description for the second man at this time.

Detective inspector Scott Hamilton, of Clydebank Police Office, said: "We have been making significant enquiries in the area following the attack and are aware that the injured man spoke to a couple, a man and a woman, as he passed them prior to the railway bridge moments before the attack.

"She is described as white, about 18 to 21 years, 5ft 6in to 5ft 7in, has dyed auburn hair and was wearing a black jacket.

"The man is white and thought to be about 23 years of age, 5ft 10in to 6ft, medium build, wearing jeans and a grey jumper.

"It is essential that either of the couple, or both, contact police as there is no doubt they have information that will help us identify those responsible for the attack.

"Although it appears that this was a random attack, I believe that the suspects are local and that someone local will know who did this.

"The injured man is still in hospital. As each of his injuries were described by medical staff as life-threatening this could very easily have been a murder but thankfully it isn't.

"Anyone with information is asked to contact officers at Clydebank Police Office on 101. Alternatively, please pass on any information to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 where you can give details and remain anonymous."