Gerrard arrested in assault probe

Gerrard scored twice in his team's 5-1 win on Sunday

England and Liverpool footballer Steven Gerrard is under arrest following an assault at a nightclub.

Police were called to the Lounge Inn in Southport, Merseyside after reports of a disturbance at 0230 GMT. Six men were detained later in a nearby street.

The men, four from Huyton, one from Formby and one from Litherland, remain in police custody.

A 34-year-old man from Southport was taken to hospital with facial injuries, not thought to be life-threatening.

The incident is alleged to have taken place at the restaurant and bar - which turns into a nightclub - on Bold Street.

Four men aged 33, 31, 29 and 19, all from Huyton, a 28-year-old from Formby and an 18-year-old from Litherland were arrested a short time later on nearby Lord Street.

The Lounge Inn remained closed on Monday.

Midfielder Gerrard, 28, is Liverpool captain and scored twice in his team's 5-1 victory over Newcastle on Sunday.

A police spokesman said: "Merseyside Police is investigating an assault that took place in the early hours of Monday December 29 on Bold Street in Southport.

"At around 2.30am this morning officers attended a disturbance at a licensed premises on Bold Street.

"Six men were arrested on suspicion of section 20 assault, on Lord Street."

The spokesman added all six currently remained in custody. It is believed no other Liverpool footballers are among those being held.

Gerrard was born and grew up on Huyton's Bluebell Estate.

Last month the Premier League star was given the freedom of his home borough of Knowsley in recognition of his contribution to football.

Liverpool FC said it would not be commenting.

E-mail this to a friend

Printable version