Calum Davenport has denied that he assaulted a woman during an incident in which he was stabbed in both legs. The West Ham United defender was charged by Bedfordshire Police on Wednesday afternoon with assault causing actual bodily harm on a woman, reported to be his sister.

But Davenport said in a statement: "I am deeply shocked and disappointed at the decision that has been made to charge me with assault. I deny any wrongdoing and will plead not guilty. For legal reasons, I am unable to discuss the matter further at this time."

Worrell Whitehurst, 25, appeared in court charged with attacking the centre-back as well as his mother, 49-year-old Kim Stupple, in the driveway of her home in Springfield Avenue, Bedford, in August.

A statement from Bedfordshire Police said: "Professional footballer Calum Davenport has been charged with assault causing actual bodily harm on a woman following an incident in Bedford on August 22.

"Mr Davenport, 26, is currently on bail to appear at Bedford Magistrates' Court on November 10.''

Davenport, a former England Under-21 international, underwent emergency surgery at Bedford Hospital for stab wounds to both legs after an incident at his mother's home in Springfield Avenue, Bedford, at 5am.

Whitehurst, Cara Davenport's boyfriend, is due to appear at Luton Crown Court on November 16.