A man will be permanently scarred after being glassed by a stranger in an unprovoked attack.

Dean McLean was pounced on by Scott Ferguson, 34, outside Glasgow Central station in July this year.

The victim was struck over the face with a glass bottle, leaving him scarred for life.

Mr McLean had alleged history with Ferguson’s three friends who were with him that day.

Ferguson pleaded guilty at Glasgow Sheriff Court to the assault on Mr McLean to his severe injury and permanent disfigurement.

The court heard Mr McLean was approached by Ferguson and his three friends near the train station.

Prosecutor Lauren Staunton said: “When Ferguson approached Mr McLean he raised his arm and struck him with a glass bottle on the face.”

Ferguson fled the scene while Mr McLean went for help at a Co-op shop nearby where a 999 call was made.

Mr McLean was rushed to Glasgow Royal Infirmary for treatment. He required 26 internal and external stitches for wounds to his top and bottom lip.

Miss Staunton added: “The doctor said the injury will cause permanent scarring.”

Police later received information from Crimestoppers in September that Ferguson was responsible for the attack and he was arrested after being identified on CCTV.

Defence lawyer Ian Sievwright said: “There had been prior incidents between the three men Mr Ferguson was with.

“There had been fighting previously but not on that day.

“Mr Ferguson was told about this when there was a chance meeting just prior to the assault.”

Sentence was deferred until next week by Sheriff John McCormick for background reports and Ferguson was remanded in custody.

Sheriff McCormick said: “This was an attack on a person you didn’t know but was in your company.

“This was with a bottle to his severe injury and permanent disfigurement. A substantial custodial sentence will be inevitable.”