West Ham defender Anton Ferdinand has been charged with assault and violent disorder after an incident outside a nightclub.

The charges relate to an alleged incident outside Faces nightclub in Ilford, east London, on October 2nd.

Ferdinand (21) of Grove Park, Mottingham, south-east London will appear before magistrates in Redbridge on Friday.

The SEM group, which represents Ferdinand, issued a statement saying the player "maintains his innocence''.

"We confirm that Anton Ferdinand. . . has been charged with assault.

"Anton looks forward to having the opportunity to explain in court the incident and nature of his actions on the night in question, October 2 2006.

"He maintains his innocence and believes his actions were justified and that because of this he believes he has not done anything wrong.

"At this stage we would ask the media to exercise restraint and allow him time to focus on his football.

"There will be no further statement at this time and Anton will keep the media informed on any developments in due course in so far as his legal advisors allow.

"This statement is in conjunction with Anton's lawyers, Shillings.''

Ferdinand has played for West Ham since December 2002, making 93 league appearances.

West Ham refused to comment.