The Liverpool winger Stewart Downing has been arrested on suspicion of assault.

The 27-year-old, who has 32 caps for England and joined Liverpool from Aston Villa last year, was arrested early on Sunday morning after an alleged confrontation with a former girlfriend at the Cross Keys club, on Yarm High Street.

The Daily Mail website quoted a local source as saying: "She went over to one of his friends and said something that she shouldn't have. He butted in and they were arguing. Police got there as they were thrown out. He caused a scene outside the club as well, when he realised they were going to take him in."

A police spokesman said: "Police were called to an incident at a pub on Yarm High Street. A 27-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of assault and a 32-year-old woman has also been arrested on suspicion of assault. Both are in custody and inquiries are ongoing."