Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard has been charged by Merseyside Police for assault and affray following an incident at a nightclub in Southport on Sunday night.

Gerrard was arrested near the Lounge Inn restaurant and nightclub following an incident in which a 34-year-old man was taken to hospital with facial injuries.

The 28-year-old midfielder had only just returned from St James’ Park where he helped the Reds to an emphatic 1-5 victory over Newcastle United, scoring twice and later hailing the side as the best he’s ever played in.

Gerrard will appear, alongside two other men from Liverpool in court on January 23.