Daniel Sturridge has asked for extra time to respond to the Football Association’s betting charge.
Sturridge was given until 6pm on Tuesday to answer to the charge, which relates to January of this year, but is now seeking an extension to the passed deadline.
The Liverpool striker issued a statement through the club in which he denied breaching any rules on gambling set out by English football’s governing body.
“Daniel has given his full and unequivocal co-operation throughout this process and has assured the club he will continue to do so,” a club spokesman said at the time.
“Daniel has also stated categorically that he has never gambled on football.
“As with any issue of this nature, we will allow the process to be concluded in its entirety before making any further comment.”
An independent judicial panel is set to consider Sturridge’s request for additional time to respond, which is understood to be a regular occurrence in complex cases.
If found guilty, the former England international could face a fine or even possible suspension from playing in accordance with the severity of the case.
Sturridge, 29, has become a regular fixture for the Reds again this season after spending the second half of last term on loan with West Bromwich Albion.