Sterling, who was named in the England Under-21 squad earlier on Thursday, was taken into police custody in the Page Moss area of Liverpool.

In a statement, Merseyside Police said: "Merseyside Police can confirm an 18-year-old man was arrested and subsequently charged with assault following an incident last night (Thursday, 8 August) in Page Moss.

"Raheem Sterling, 18, of Woolton was charged with Section 39 Common Assault.

"Sterling was remanded in custody to appear at Liverpool Magistrates’ Court today (Friday)."

It is not the first time Sterling has had to answer to allegations of assault as he was questioned in November 2012 over a different incident.

That particular case was dismissed in May after the prosecution offered no evidence against him.

Sterling made 24 appearances in the Premier League for Brendan Rodgers' side last season, scoring two goals.