A NORTH-EAST footballer is being sued by his former club for £24,000 for allegedly trashing his luxury lodgings.

Sunderland-born Stephen Halliday, who began his career with Hartlepool United, is facing legal action by Scottish Premier League club Motherwell.

The Scottish club claims doors were left hanging off furniture, electrical connections ripped out of walls, and the flat was filled with a revolting smell from his dog.

The property, which had been rented by Motherwell club chiefs through a property management agency, was described as "unletable" when the star moved out in May 2000 after his transfer to the English Third Division side Carlisle United.

Motherwell Football Club general manager Alisdair Barron was at Newcastle County Court yesterday for the first day of the damages trial. But the striker failed to turn up to defend himself.

Mr Barron told the court how he was stunned when the club was landed with a £19,000 bill by agents Regents Property to replace furniture and carry out repairs at the property.

He told the court: "I personally could not believe what I was quoted and actually asked to go and see the damage."

Halliday had rented the property at Glenacre Crescent, with his wife, Julie, and his rent was paid for by the club.

Mr Barron added: "All the elements identified by Regents Property were in fact true. Doors had to be replaced and furniture had legs gnawed by a large animal of some description."

Due to Halliday's non-attendance, and difficulties with witness statements, the case will be heard at a later date.

Mr Halliday was ordered to pay £100 travel costs to Mr Barron for yesterday's hearing.