Ferguson is said to be very concerned after confronting the two burglars in his home where he lives with his family.

Kevin Dooley, the former Rangers striker's friend and solicitor, read a short statement at Everton FC's Goodison ground.

It is understood police inquiries are concentrating on allegations that Ferguson was butted and then hit with a bottle when he disturbed intruders at his house in Rufford, Lancashire.

The statement said: "Duncan Ferguson is understandably very concerned about events of the early hours of Sunday morning. Thankfully there was no serious injury suffered by his wife, baby or himself. "

It went on: "He will be available for selection on Saturday next for the game against Tottenham Hotspur."

Alan Myers, communications manager at Everton, says everyone at the club is "extremely relieved to hear that Duncan Ferguson and his family are safe and well".

The 29-year-old Scot, who did not require hospital treatment, restrained one of the alleged burglars during the incident while a second person fled.

Ferguson served 44 days in Barlinnie Prison in 1995 after butting an opponent while playing for Glasgow Rangers in 1994, becoming the first professional footballer to be jailed for an offence on the field.