Everton’s Barkley assaulted as he celebrates in pub

ROSS BARKLEY was the victim of an ‘unprovoked’ attack in Liverpool city centre hours after he played a starring role in Everton’s victory over Leicester City. CCTV footage emerged yesterday of the England star being punched in the face and knocked to the floor by another man late on Sunday, having initially been in a conversation with his assailant. Barkley was in Santa Chupitos, a cocktail bar on Slater Street, relaxing with friends after the 4-2 win at Goodison Park. The 23-year-old midfielder had created Everton’s second goal for Romelu Lukaku. The blow to Barkley’s head was so powerful that it sent him tumbling backwards on to the floor. His attacker swung two more punches towards him whilst being wrestled away. Barkley remained conscious and reported for training yesterday with swelling on his face for a routine warm-down session. There is no suggestion that Barkley broke club rules by being out so late. Nor is it claimed he had drunk too much alcohol. Everton do not impose a curfew on their squad after they have played games and Barkley will be considered for selection against Burnley on Saturday. A statement released by Barkley’s agents Wasserman Media Group said: ‘Ross was the victim of an unprovoked attack by a stranger who approached him.’ However, Barkley’s choice of venue was questionable for such a high-profile individual. Slater Street is in the Ropewalks area of Liverpool and is lined with pubs and bars. Santa Chupitos bills itself as a ‘cocktail emporium’. Everton declined to comment last night, while Merseyside Police are reviewing footage of the incident before deciding what action to take because no official complaint has yet been made.

THE United States, Canada and Mexico have announced their intention to submit a joint bid to host the 2026 World Cup. The CONCACAF countries confirmed their plan to pool resources at a press conference at One World Trade Centre in New York. The proposal will see the US host 60 games, with 10 each played in Canada and Mexico. The US last hosted the World Cup in 1994.