Football star Sterling faces assault charge

The 18-year-old Liverpool and England winger was summonsed to Liverpool Youth Court yesterday accused of common assault.

The Jamaica-born player did not attend the hearing and solicitor Mick Hogan appeared on his behalf.

Police said a 27-year-old woman, who is known to the footballer, suffered “slight” facial injuries during an alleged incident in Toxteth, Liverpool, on November 2.

During yesterday’s short hearing Mr Hogan told the court that Sterling denies the allegation.

He said the alleged offence took place when the footballer was 17 but, as he turned 18 in December, the matter should be transferred to the adult courts.

Chairman of the bench Brian Upton adjourned the case to Liverpool Magistrates’ Court on February 22.