Gerrard in first match since assault charge

Steven Gerrard will be watched by millions today as he plays his first match since being charged with assault and affray.

The 28-year-old will appear in Liverpool’s live televised FA Cup clash against Preston North End at tea time.

The Reds skipper will take to the Deepdale pitch determined to put a week of controversy – in which he allegedly attacked a DJ – behind him.

The father-of-two was publicly backed by his Anfield bosses after hitting the headlines following an early morning arrest outside a nightclub.

And yesterday manager Rafa Benitez further supported the star calling him “a great professional”.

It is not known whether the father-of-two – who faces a maximum five-year jail stretch if convicted – will lead his team out or appear from the substitutes’ bench.

It was thought the club would rest their talismanic midfielder and protect him from the exposure of the sell-out game. But Gerrard and the club want to continue as normal in the wake of the criminal charges – which stemmed from a fight in the Lounge Inn, in Southport.

It is alleged Gerrard, of Formby, Merseyside, was involved in an assault on part-time DJ Marcus McGee, 34, who lost a tooth and needed stitches to his face.

Gerrard will appear at North Sefton Magistrates’ Court in Southport on January 23 along with two other men.