Ex-England striker Daniel Sturridge has denied he owes a $30,000 (£24,737) reward and instructed lawyers to act on his behalf in a dispute over his dog.
Sturridge offered the reward in 2019, saying Lucci the Pomeranian was stolen during a break-in at a house in Los Angeles, before later being reunited with his pet.
The Daily Mail says American rapper Foster Washington launched a civil suit as he claims he is owed the money, and adds that a warrant for Sturridge’s arrest has been issued.
In December 2021, Sturridge was ordered to pay the money – plus costs of $85 – to Washington. Court documents at the time showed that judgement was given by default, meaning Sturridge did not respond to the complaint.
The new Daily Mail report says Sturridge, 34, failed to appear in an LA court and an arrest warrant was issued. A new hearing has been set for 30 November.
The ex-Manchester City, Chelsea and Liverpool striker said on social media that Thursday’s article was “the first time my family and I heard that someone is continuing to try to get money from me”.
His statement said: “I personally paid a reward to the young boy who found him. He was delighted with the reward, as were my family and I to get Lucci home. The person seeking payment is not due any money, I already paid the young boy who found Lucci.
“I was unaware of the court hearing even taking place. The legal paperwork was sent to the Airbnb property which we had left within 24 hours of the burglary.
“Therefore, I have not had the opportunity to properly represent myself in relation to these false claims.
“With that being said, I have now instructed California lawyers to deal with matters on my behalf. I am confident that this will be resolved in my favour quickly and put an end to the speculative claim for good.”
Sturridge has never officially retired from playing, but has not been with registered a club since leaving Perth Glory in the summer of 2022.
