Coronation Street has confirmed a shocking suspect for Mal Roper’s upcoming attack. The newcomer will be left in critical condition following a brutal beating – but whose actions land him in hospital?

In last night’s episode, Bernie Winter-Alahan finally shut down Mal’s unwanted advances, after being harassed by him for several weeks. But after laying down the law, Mal quickly turned nasty, leaving Bernie fearing for her safety.

Later this week, Bernie confronts Mal over her defaced wedding photo and demands he leaves Weatherfield for good. She then confides in her son Kit Green about her history with the electrician, revealing his scary behaviour.

Meanwhile, after another showdown with Bernie, Mal mysteriously ends up in hospital, with Bernie being arrested for assault. But is she truly responsible, or has someone taken matters into their own hands to protect her?

In scenes that will air on 2 March, the news of Mal’s attack spreads through the street, with everyone drawing their own conclusions about the culprit.

When Brody Michaelis questions Kit and Sarah Platt about the incident, they exchange awkward glances. Sensing they’re hiding something, Brody reports back to his grandma Bernie.

Later, Bernie confronts Kit about his involvement in the attack and he finally admits what actually happened. But did he beat up Mal to protect his mum, or could he be covering for someone else?

“Bernie is the police’s top suspect after someone attacks Mal,” our Corrie source explains. “By this point, she has been heard threatening him and seems to be the most likely suspect.

“Brody’s observations could lead to a breakthrough, though. Is Kit up to no good again? And if he is, could this affect his career in the police force?”