A LITHUANIAN man who was left fighting for his life after a stabbing may have inflicted the injuries himself, according to police.

The 26-year-old was injured in Bishop Street, Nelson, on Sunday night and was taken to Burnley General Hospital by four friends.

The men, all Lithuanians, were arrested by police on suspicion of wounding but have now been released on bail pending police interviews with the injured man.

Detective inspector Dean Holden said the man was "very seriously injured" in the incident and lost so much blood he had to have a blood transfusion.

He suffered two stab wounds to his neck and further knife injuries to his abdomen.

After being taken to Burnley General Hospital, he was transferred to Royal Blackburn Hospital where his condition was described as critical.

He was then taken to the cardio vascular unit at Blackpool Victoria Hospital for further treatment and underwent an operation.

His condition last night was described as stable.

Officers hope to speak to the man today to gain a better understanding of what happened on Sunday night.

They have been able to speak to the injured man's associates through inte-rpreters after they were arrested on Sunday night.

DI Holden said that the theory that the injuries were self inflicted "cannot be discounted".

He said: "The man suffered very serious injuries and lost a lot of blood.

"We hope to be in a position to speak to him which will hopefully shed some light on the situation."

Anyone with any information is asked to call Lancashire Police on 01282 425001 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.