Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard was arrested on Monday after a brawl at a restaurant. The England midfielder was among six men arrested when officers were called to the Lounge Inn in Southport, Merseyside. A 34-year-old local man was taken to hospital with facial injuries, which are not thought to be serious. Merseyside Police said the 28-year-old footballer and five other men were arrested on suspicion of assault.

Gerrard went out with friends just hours after his side's 5-1 victory over Newcastle at St James' Park. After the game Gerrard, who scored twice, hailed his table-topping Liverpool side as the best he has played in. He was arrested after a disturbance at the Lounge Inn, a modern restaurant close to the junction of Bold Street and Stanley Street. The venue converts to a late-night club venue with live music and DJs. No one was available to comment on Monday.The well-to-do seaside town is a popular destination for wealthy footballers looking for a night out.

Gerrard has been capped by England 70 times and has captained his country on four occasions. He was made an MBE last year and received an honorary fellowship from Liverpool John Moores University.

Liverpool's next match is against Preston in the FA Cup on Saturday.

A police spokesman said: ''Merseyside Police is investigating an assault that took place in the early hours of Monday December 29 on Bold Street in Southport.

''At around 2.30am this morning officers attended a disturbance at a licensed premises on Bold Street. Six men were arrested on suspicion of section 20 assault on Lord Street. The men, four aged 33, 31, 29 and 19, who all come from the Huyton area, a 28-year-old man from Formby and an 18-year-old man from Litherland remain in police custody.

''A 34-year-old man from Southport was taken to hospital with facial injuries which are not believed to be life-threatening. Anyone who saw anything or who has any information is asked to call Merseyside Police on 0151 777 3165 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.''

A Liverpool spokesman said the club would not be commenting on the alleged incident.

The altercation took place outside the Lounge Inn in Bold Street. The town centre premises were shut this lunchtime.

A Bentley car, which is believed to have been parked overnight, remained outside the club with a parking ticket attached.