Everton have been hit by major controversy involving one of their female players.

The Daily Mail reports an Everton academy coach has been suspended while Merseyside Police investigate complaints he punched the club's women's team goalkeeper in the face at the staff Christmas party.

The shocking incident involving Mick O'Brien, who looks after Everton's nine to 11 year olds, and second-choice keeper Danielle Hill took place around midnight last Sunday outside the Blue Bar on Liverpool's Albert Dock as the function was breaking up.

Hill, 24-year-old niece of former England striker Mark Hateley, reported the alleged attack to Merseyside police and went to hospital for a check-up on minor facial injuries.

Police are making enquiries and Everton are holding an extensive internal investigation.

The Everton bash was attended by administrative staff, academy and community coaches as well as the women's team.

Neither manager David Moyes nor his first-team squad were present.