Liverpool footballer John Arne Riise has been declared bankrupt by the courts for an unpaid debt of about #100,000.

The defender, understood to earn about #50,000 a week, was declared bankrupt at Liverpool County Court on Tuesday.

Riise is listed as a bankrupt on the Government's Insolvency Service website at www.insolvency.gov.uk.

Legally a bankrupt is a person who has debts they cannot pay.

It names John Arne Riise, gives his address, but fails to list his occupation, giving the "status" "currently bankrupt".

Riise, 27, is involved in a legal battle with his former agent, Einar Baardsen, over how his fortune has been invested. Baardsen stopped representing the player in 2005.

The case is reported to be linked to an alleged #3m fraud investigation currently going through the courts in Riise's native Norway.

It is understood Riise may be liable for debts incurred from failed business enterprises, including a hotel.

Sources say the player may not even have been aware he was being taken to court at the time - as he was away on international duty with Norway.

It is understood the bankruptcy order was made after a debt of about #100,000 was not paid

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Don't know if the above was an April Fools or not