Robbie Fowler is recovering after being attacked during a night out in Liverpool city centre.
The £15m-rated Liverpool striker was seen with facial injuries outside the Wonder Bar, in the heart of the city's pub and clubland.
The 25-year-old footballer did not need hospital treatment according to police, who have since arrested a 39-year-old man in connection with the attack.
A Merseyside Police spokesman said: "Police were called to the Wonder Bar in the Slater Street area of Liverpool.
"Robbie Fowler was seen outside the premises having been assaulted. He was suffering slight injuries to his face.
"Detectives are investigating the incident, witnesses are being interviewed and statements taken. A 39-year-old Liverpool man has been arrested on suspicion of having inflicted the injuries. "