A thug has been warned to expect a lengthy jail sentence after admitting a vicious attack that left a man brain damaged and fighting for his life.

Jamie Brannon, 19, pleaded guilty today to causing Dean Staff grievous bodily harm with intent and asked a judge to sentence him immediately.

But Judge Charles Macdonald, QC, said it was "out of the question", as he needed reports on various matters, including dangerousness.

The 26-year-old victim was left critically injured after the attack in Five Bells Lane, Rochester, on September 19 last year.

Peter Forbes, prosecuting, told Maidstone Crown Court: "This is a life-threatening and life-changing injury. He suffered brain damage. There was prolonged stamping to the head of an unconscious complainant."

Remanding Brannon, of Skinner Street, Gillingham, in custody until February 23, the judge said: "This is a very serious crime. There are potential issues of dangerousness. I will need a medical report giving the present condition and prognosis for Dean Staff.

"Plainly, there will be a long custodial sentence, but there may be a public protection sentence."

A police spokesman said afterwards: "It was a very serious injury. We thought he was going to die."