Gerrard back in training after assault charge

England footballer Steven Gerrard returned to training today with little fanfare.

The 28-year-old – charged with assault and affray after a nightclub brawl - joined team mates at Liverpool FC’s Melwood training ground.

The Anfield star arrived at the ground in the suburb of West Derby in his black Range Rover Sport at 10.05am.

He was greeted by a few fans who turned out despite the freezing temperatures to see him drive straight through the waiting open gates.

He has so far remained silent about the controversy and his wife Alex Curran, 26, last night said they would not be commenting.

Gerrard was charged with two other men following a fight at the Lounge Inn, in Southport, Merseyside, in the early hours of Monday.

The father-of-two was celebrating his team’s win over Newcastle when trouble began.

He was arrested and interviewed by detectives who later charged the international, who was awarded an MBE in the last New Year’s honours.

It is claimed the player – nicknamed the Huyton Hammer after his birthplace and devastating playing style – assaulted part-time DJ Marcus McGee, 34.

Mr McGee, of Southport, allegedly lost a tooth and needed stitches to a face cut.

In the hours after the fracas, blood and broken glass were visible on the floor of the club.

Gerrard, of Formby, Merseyside, will go before magistrates on 23 January with John Doran, 29, and Ian Gerard Smith, 19, both of Huyton.

They are also facing counts of assault and affray.

The Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA) have offered their help to Gerrard.

PFA chief executive Gordon Taylor said: “We have a watching brief on this and have offered any help we can.

“I was concerned when I heard about the case as I have known Steven Gerrard a long time.

“I don’t know the full details but as the players’ union we would want to be supportive of him.”