Former Scotland footballer Duncan Ferguson is being investigated by police over allegations he assaulted a man burgling his home on Merseyside.

It is the second time the 31-year-old Everton striker has confronted burglars in his home.

Carl Bishop, 37, from Walton, Liverpool, admitted intent to steal from the footballer's Formby home last week when he appeared before North Sefton magistrates.

He will be sentenced at Liverpool Crown Court next month.

No charges

However, the criminal has accused the 6ft 4in former Rangers player of assaulting him during the confrontation.

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

Two years ago two men, Michael Pratt and Barry Dawson, were disturbed by Ferguson as they broke into his then home in Rufford in west Lancashire.

Pratt escaped but Dawson was restrained by Ferguson until the police arrived.

He later spent three days in hospital.

Pratt and Dawson were sentenced to 15 months in prison.

No charges were brought against Ferguson.