Ex-Liverpool star Daniel Sturridge issues statement after court 'warrant' claim

Former Liverpool striker Daniel Sturridge has rejected claims he is yet to pay a financial reward to the individual who found his missing dog four years ago.

Sturridge's pet Pomeranian, named Lucci, was taken from his Los Angeles home in July 2019, resulting in the 34-year-old offering up a "sizeable" sum to anyone who could help track down his dog.

Foster Washington, an American rapper known as Killa Fame, took credit for helping achieve this aim but said he did not receive the payment. He is believed to have subsequently launched a civil lawsuit against the Birmingham-born star.

A report by the Daily Mail yesterday suggested a "bench warrant" summons had been issued after Sturridge had failed "to appear in a LA court over money he allegedly owes to a man who says he found his dog".

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Moving to reject the claims, however, the ex-Reds forward released the following statement on social media: "The news yesterday was the first time my family and I heard that someone is continuing to try and get money from me, following the theft of my family's dog, Lucci, which happened four years ago.

"The truth is, I personally paid a reward to the young boy who found him. He was delighted with the reward, as were my family and I to get Lucci home. The person seeking payment is not due any money. I already paid the young boy who found Lucci.

"I was unaware of the court hearing even taking place. The legal paperwork was sent to the Airbnb property which we had left within 24 hours of the burglary.

"Therefore, I have not had the opportunity to properly represent myself in