Manchester United star Dean Henderson has urged his fellow west Cumbrian Danny Hodgson to "stay strong" in a touching video message.

The goalkeeper joined team-mate Cristiano Ronaldo in recording a message of support to 26-year-old Danny, who is in intensive care in an Australian hospital after an alleged unprovoked attack.

Henderson recorded the message to be played to Danny at his bedside in Royal Perth Hospital, where he is in a critical but stable condition.

The Whitehaven-born Premier League star said: "Danny, I just wish you all the best mate. Stay strong, stay in there, and you'll get through this I promise. I know how hard you are - you'll be fine.

WATCH: Cristiano Ronaldo sends best wishes to Danny Hodgson

"I can't wait to get you over to a game and meet the boys. I've told them all about you, and we're all in your corner as a club and as a team.

"Love you to bits mate, and we need to get that game of Call of Duty once you're recovered. All the best, pal."

Henderson has rallied to the Hodgsons' cause ever since the 26-year-old was seriously injured.

The goalkeeper arranged for a message of support to be played over the public address system at a recent Man Utd game, with tens of thousands of fans applauding when Danny's name was read out.

He also told Ronaldo about Danny's plight, leading the Portuguese star to send his own video message and invite the former Windscale, Cleator Moor Celtic and Carlisle United youth team player to a game when he has recovered.

In Australia, meanwhile, a benefit match to raise funds to help with Danny's recovery is being staged on Tuesday between Danny's current club, ECU Joondalup, and Perth Glory, at Dorrien Gardens in West Perth.

Danny's mum and dad, Nicola and Peter, from Bigrigg, Egremont, are in quarantine in a Perth hotel under Covid rules after flying to the country to be with their son.

They were allowed a compassionate visit to see him in hospital last week.

The benefit game kicks off at 7pm local time tomorrow (12pm in the UK). It can be watched live via https://www.facebook.com/matchwinr and online tickets can be bought here.