Daniel Sturridge has denied claims that he owes any $30,000 (£24,737) reward and asked his lawyers to act over dog controversy.
The former Liverpool and Chelsea player offered the reward in 2019 after he revealed that he lost his pet named Lucci.
He claimed that Lucci the Pomeranian was stolen during a break-in at a house in Los Angeles before later being reunited with his pet.
Reports by Daily Mail claim that American rapper Foster Washington launched a civil suit as he claims he is owed the money.
The Rapper also claimed that a warrant was also issued for the rest of the former England international Daniel Sturridge.
In 2021, Daniel Sturridge was ordered by the courts to pay he money – plus costs of $85 – to Washington, the musician.
Futballnews understands that the court document as at when shared showed that judgment was given by default, meaning Sturridge did not respond to the complaint.
We also understand that the Englishman 34, failed to appear in an LA court and an arrest warrant was issued, however, a new hearing has been slated for November, 30th.
Sturridge, who played Manchester City, Chelsea, and Liverpool, stated on social media that the news “the first time my family and I heard that someone is continuing to try to get money from me”.
The statement by Daniel Sturridge read: “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,” Daniel Sturridge went on to add.
“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 favor quickly and put an end to the speculative claim for good.”
The Englishman has been without a club since Perth Glory in the summer of 2022, but he is still an active footballer.
Daniel Sturridge
Daniel Andre Sturridge is an English former professional footballer who was born on 1 September, 1989 and played as a striker but currently is a pundit for Sky Sports.
Sturridge has represented England at all levels, including the under-21 team, when he appeared 15 times and scored four goals.
In November 2011, he made his senior squad debut against Sweden, and he was chosen for the 2014 FIFA World Cup and UEFA Euro 2016.
He also represented Great Britain at the Summer Olympics in 2012.
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