Gerrard back training after assault charge

Liverpool captain 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's Melwood training ground.

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

Gerrard has so far remained silent about the controversy and his wife Alex Curran last night said they would not be commenting. The player was charged with two other men following a fight at the Lounge Inn, in Southport, Merseyside, in the early hours of Monday.

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

It is claimed the player 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 January 23 with John Doran, 29, and Ian Gerard Smith, 19, both of Huyton. They are also facing counts of assault