Everton FC Finch Farm Training Complex, Halewood, Knowsley
Police are investigating reports of a training ground bust-up between two young Everton FC stars – which left one in hospital.
Blues under-18s goalkeeper Ciaran O’Loughlin suffered a neck injury following the alleged brawl at the club’s Finch Farm training ground on Monday.
Police confirmed the 17-year-old was hurt during an “argument” with an 18-year-old player and that an alleged assault was being investigated.
A spokesman said: “A 17-year-old male received injuries to his neck during an argument with an 18-year-old male.”
“He was taken to hospital where he is being treated.
“The investigation is ongoing.”
O’Loughlin has been with Everton for nearly ten years after joining the club’s academy at the age of eight.
The Birkenhead-born ‘keeper — who is eligible to play for England or Ireland through family links — is highly thought of by academy coaches.
The Everton website lists Tim Howard as O’Loughlin’s role model and states that his “primary aim for the 2014/15 campaign is to earn international recognition”
As a schoolboy, he also played for junior team Airbus UK Broughton..
An Everton spokesman said: “The matter is being investigated internally and the club will make no further comment.”
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