Liverpool and England winger Raheem Sterling has been charged with assaulting a woman. The 18-year-old was summonsed to Liverpool Youth Court on a charge of common assault.
Police said a 27-year-old suffered "slight" facial injuries in an alleged incident in Toxteth on 2 November.
Mr Sterling did not attend the hearing but his solicitor said he 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.
Solicitor Mick Hogan said: "I do have instructions to the effect that Mr Sterling will be pleading not guilty to this charge.
"He is aware of today's hearing and the club are very supportive."
