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A footballer has been arrested for attacking a referee and appearing to render him unconscious during a match in Brazil.

William Ribeiro, who plays for state-league club Sao Paulo RS, committed the attack while playing against Guarani on Monday.

His team had just fallen a goal behind in the game when he violently kicked official Rodrigo Crivellaro, who was quickly rushed to hospital after being knocked out unconscious.

It remains unclear why Ribeiro lost his cool on the night, with both sets of players forced to restrain him as he booted a helpless Crivellaro in disgusting fashion while he laid on the pitch.