Liverpool have decided against sacking Jon Flanagan after he was found guilty of assaulting his girlfriend.

The Liverpool Echo says Flanagan has avoided instant dismissal from Liverpool FC because the club believes it has a responsibility to help his rehabilitation after he pleaded guilty to assaulting his girlfriend.

An internal disciplinary process took place on Thursday following the culmination of the court case.

Flanagan joined Liverpool as a youngster at the Academy and it is felt that helping him to rehabilitate is the correct course of action.

The player's own instant admission of guilt and subsequent contrition and remorse were all factors in the club's decision.