A MAN who punched his friend in front of cops on Christmas Day has been ordered to carry out unpaid work.

Rafal Kobos carried out the assault on the man at Robertson Lane in Glasgow city centre on December 25, 2020.

The 33-year-old appeared in Glasgow Sheriff Court for sentencing on Tuesday.

Prosecutor Jennifer Sillars said reports were made to police about a disturbance at 3.55pm.

When officers arrived shortly after 4pm, Kobos was seen approaching the man and swinging a punch towards him with a clenched fist, striking the side of his head.

Ms Sillars said: “This was observed by police in attendance. The accused was cautioned and charged and made no reply.”

Kobos’ lawyer said there had been a heated discussion with her client and his friend.

She added: “The complainer made a comment in relation to my client’s female friend.

“My client was intoxicated by alcohol and reacted as narrated. There was no injury.

“There is a record. There are two outstanding matters, but these are offences from 2020. Alcohol became an issue for him during this period.

“He found himself before the court on a number of occasions. In January last year, he was placed on a community payback order with supervision and unpaid work. There’s been no offending since then.

“He has reduced his alcohol intake now he is in full-time employment.”

Due to Kobos living in a hostel until he obtains his own tenancy, the defence solicitor said her client may not be suitable for a restriction of liberty order, but he would comply with further unpaid work and supervision.

Sheriff Charles Lugton ordered him to carry out 90 hours of unpaid work and be under social work supervision for nine months.