Liverpool's Raheem Sterling has been charged with assaulting a 27-year-old woman.
The 18-year-old winger was summonsed to Liverpool youth court on Friday on a charge of common assault. Sterling, who lives in Woolton, Liverpool, did not attend the hearing and his 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 on 2 November. During the short hearing the court was told that Sterling denies the allegation.
Hogan said the alleged offence took place when the footballer was 17 but, as he had turned 18 in December, the matter should be transferred to the adult courts. That argument was supported by the prosection and the case was adjourned to Liverpool magistrates court on 22 February.
Sterling made his senior international debut for England in November 2012 against Sweden and has earned plaudits for his performances for Liverpool this season. His solicitor said the club had been "very supportive" of their player over the matter.
http://m.guardian.co.uk/football/2013/feb/01/liverpool-raheem-sterling-assault
