Everton have suspended an academy coach following complaints that he punched a female goalkeeper at a staff Christmas party.
Mick O'Brien, who coaches the club's nine to 11-year-olds, is alleged to have struck Danielle Hill in the face outside of a Liverpool nightclub last weekend.
Hill, 24, who is the niece of former England striker Mark Hateley, reported the incident to Merseyside police and went to hospital for a check-up on minor facial injuries.
"Merseyside Police can confirm an investigation is underway following the assault of a 24-year-old woman in Liverpool city centre on Sunday, December 16," read a police statement.
"The incident occurred near to the entrance of the Blue Bar in the Albert Dock at about midnight. The 24-year-old was punched in the face during the incident.
"An investigation into the full circumstances of the incident is ongoing."
Everton have suspended both O'Brien and Hill while the investigation continues.
Hill is Everton Ladies' second choice goalkeeper, behind Team GB stopper Rachel Brown.
Robert Summerscales
