A SUFFOLK schoolboy has appeared in court today, charged with unlawfully and maliciously wounding talented footballer Benjamin Goddard, with intent to cause grievous bodily harm after an alleged stabbing at the school.

A SUFFOLK schoolboy has appeared in court today, charged with unlawfully and maliciously wounding talented footballer Benjamin Goddard, with intent to cause grievous bodily harm after an alleged stabbing at the school.

Norwich City academy footballer Benjamin, 15, was critically injured in the alleged attack on Friday and underwent emergency surgery at Ipswich Hospital.

Another 15 year old was arrested and taken to Bury St Edmunds Police Station, for questioning before being charged with the offence on Saturday.

He appeared before Bury St Edmunds Magistrates today, with both his parents standing alongside.

Chairman of the bench Maureen Murphy, ruled that his name and address could not be revealed to public, after an application from members of the press, who were present.

The teenager told magistrates his name and address, then listened intently to proceedings, as he sat flanked by two custody officers in the dock.

Prosecutor Paul Forshaw (correct), said Benjamin who remains in intensive care at hospital was stabbed in the boys toilet block at 360 pupil school at about 10am, on Friday.

The court heard that the matter was so serious it would have to be heard at Crown Court.

The hospital is no longer issuing updates to the media but family friends said his condition was stable – although he was not out of danger yet.

Members of his family have been keeping a bedside vigil.

Prayers for the recovery of Benjamin were said during two services conducted by Rev David Streeter at All Saints Church, Stradbroke, yesterday.

"Everyone is shocked by what happened and our thoughts and prayers are with Benjamin and his family," Mr Streeter said.

Sammy Morgan, director of the Norwich City Football Club Academy, said Benjamin, a member of one of the youth teams, was " a quiet lad".

"He was recommended for trial at the academy and he came here and impressed us. He's a very committed lad. Our thoughts are with him and his family," he added.