Police have released sickening footage of a horrifying coward punch in the hope someone may recognise the attacker.

About 2.45am a man was the victim of a shocking ‘coward punch’ assault whilst outside a Canberra convenience store.

The victim was in conversation with another male when he was struck from the side by a second male.

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In the sickening footage, you can see the victim in conversation with another male when he is struck from the side by a second male.

Police arrived on the scene where they found the man laying on his back unconscious with his head on the ground.

He sustained serious injuries that required him to undergo emergency surgery.

Police have released footage of the New Year’s Day attack in a bid to identify the offender.

He’s described as being between 5’6” and 5’11 inches tall (170cm – 180cm) with dark complexion. He was wearing a grey T-shirt and black pants.

Police are urging anyone who may have witnessed the incident or who can identify the offender to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.