British Transport Police (BTP) officers are appealing for witnesses to an assault on board a train to come forward.
The incident happened on the 11pm service from Birmingham New Street to Gloucester on Friday, store 14 August – the same night Aston Villa played Manchester United in a Premier League match.
PC Ben Smith said: “The assault happened prior to the train arriving at Worcester Shrub Hill.
“A 24-year-old man was assaulted following a verbal altercation with three other men on the train.
“Fortunately he was not seriously injured, buy but this was a violent incident of the type which is completely unacceptable.”
The train was busy, with many football fans making their way home following the match at Villa Park, and officers are now keen to speak to anyone who witnessed events.
PC Smith added: “I know there were people in the carriage who saw what happened and I need to speak to them to build a clear picture of events.
“Nobody wants to see incidents like this, and we work hard to make sure the rail network remains a safe place for passengers and staff alike.
“We need the public’s help in this case. Please let us know if you have any information which could help.”
Anyone with information is asked to contact British Transport Police on 0800 40 50 40, or text 61016, quoting reference GSUB/B8 of 21/08/2015. Information can also be passed anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.