Man in induced coma in hospital after 'callous' attack

A man is in a critical condition after being attacked in Sydney’s south-west this morning.

Police believe Zeeshan Ahmed was on his way home from a late shift at Burwood Woolworths store when he was attacked from behind at 1.50am.

The 44-year-old father-of-two received traumatic injuries to the back of his head and was left for dead.

Despite bleeding heavily, he managed to make his way home to a unit on Fairmount Street in Lakemba, where he alerted his pregnant wife before he collapsed.

She called Triple Zero and police arrived a short time later.

The victim was transported to St George hospital, where he remains stable but critical.

Police believe the attack may have been a robbery. The victim is not known to police and his mobile phone may have been stolen during the attack.

"It’s a horrendous crime. The victim is currently in hospital in an induced coma,” NSW Police Inspector Rick Agius told 9NEWS.

“Striking someone on the head from behind is a very callous, very horrendous offence.

"It's very cowardly, late at night under the concealment of darkness."

Mr Ahmed is understood to usually drive the family car to work, however recently it had broken down and he was left to catch public transport.

Police are now trying to piece together the moments between the 44-year-old leaving Lakemba train station and being attacked, although the motive behind the assault remains a mystery.

A crime scene was set up at the Fairmount Street building and the neighbouring unit block.

Detectives have also been unable to speak to the father since he was placed into the induced coma.

"We suspect it may have been a robbery," Insp Agius said.

"There is a mobile phone that is missing."

Anyone with information is urged to contact Crimestoppers on 1800 333 000.