We believe the victim had only been in Scotland for around a fortnight

Chief Superintendent Kevin Smith

A police spokeswoman said: "We understand this man was returning from a night out in the city centre with a friend when this incident took place.

"We are treating this as murder and have not ruled out the possibility that this was a racially motivated attack."

There have been more than 70 racist attacks in the Sighthill area of Glasgow, home to more than 1,500 asylum seekers, in the last 14 months.

Chief Superintendent Kevin Smith, who covers the Sighthill area, said: "The inquiry is at an early stage but we are working closely with community representatives and interpreters in a bid to obtain information.

"We believe the victim had only been in Scotland for around a fortnight and are still working in partnership with various agencies to ascertain his family details.

'Completely unprovoked'

"As in any murder inquiry, we will be doing everything possible to catch those responsible."

He said the pair were returning from eating a meal in the centre of the city when they were approached by two men on park land near Fountainwell Road.

One of the men became involved in an argument with the 22-year-old man who was then attacked.

The victim managed to make his way to a nearby street where he collapsed shortly before an ambulance arrived to take him to the hospital.

Det Supt Alex McAllister, who is leading the investigation, said: "This would appear to have been a completely unprovoked attack on a man who had just been returning home with his friend."

Police issued descriptions of the men they are hunting who are both believed to be aged about 28.

One is of strong build and has short hair. He was wearing a white sleeveless top, possibly a T-shirt, and cream coloured trousers.

The other is about 5ft 11in tall and thin. He was wearing a yellow jacket with the hood up and black trousers.