Former West Ham footballer Trevor Sinclair has appeared in court today charged with offences including assaulting a police officer and racially aggravated public order.

The 44-year-old TV pundit appeared at Blackpool Magistrates’ Court after he was summonsed for offences of driving while unfit through drink, assault on a police officer, racially or religiously aggravated intentional harassment, alarm or distress, failing to provide a specimen for analysis, criminal damage to property under the value of £5,000 and indecent conduct in a police station.

Mr Sinclair, who arrived at court with his wife, was represented by solicitor Nick Freeman.

The footballer, wearing a dark grey suit, spoke to confirm his name, address and date of birth.

The winger joined West Ham in 1998 where he stayed for five years before being bought by Manchester City.

He has also played for Queen’s Park Ranger and Blackpool and made 12 appearances for England.

Mr Sinclair was arrested after police were called to his home in Lytham, Lancashire, following reports of a disturbance on November 12.

After a hearing which lasted about a minute, the case was adjourned to January 2.