Everton midfielder Ross Barkley 'was the victim of an unprovoked attack' in a bar on Sunday, lawyers acting on his behalf have said.
Merseyside Police have confirmed they have opened an investigation following the emergence of footage appearing to show the 23-year-old being punched.
The incident is alleged to have taken place in Liverpool city centre, some time after Barkley featured in Everton's 4-2 victory over Leicester on Sunday.
A statement from lawyers read: "We can confirm that Ross was the victim of an unprovoked attack by a stranger who approached him on Sunday evening.