Big Dunc tackles thieves…again

Everton striker Duncan Ferguson is being investigated by police over allegations that he assaulted an intruder who was burgling his home, it emerged today.

The Scottish hardman discovered 37-year-old Carl Bishop at his home in Formby, Merseyside, last week.

He tackled the intruder and managed to restrain him until police arrived.

Bishop, of Walton, Liverpool, admitted intent to steal when he appeared before North Sefton magistrates last week. He will be sentenced at Liverpool Crown Court next month.

But the criminal has accused Ferguson of assaulting him during the confrontation.

Merseyside Police are investigating the allegation and officers will speak to Ferguson.

He will not be arrested but is likely to be interviewed under caution and with a solicitor present.

A spokeswoman for the force said: “We are investigating an allegation of assault made against the householder in connection with the incident.”

The break-in came two years and a day after Ferguson tackled two burglars at his former home in Rufford, Lancashire.

One of the pair ran away but the other required three days of hospital treatment following the struggle.

Both were jailed for 15 months in April 2001.