Stewart Downing has been arrested for allegedly hitting an ex-girlfriend in a nightclub.

It is claimed that the Liverpool winger was arrested in a club near Middlesbrough following an incident with the woman.

An unnamed source is quoted 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 spokesperson 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."

We haven't seen Downing hit much since his big-money move to Anfield so we'd urge you to consider him innocent until proven guilty.