Former Liverpool Champions League Star Faces Bankruptcy Amid Family Dispute

Steve Finnan, a former Premier League player known for winning the Champions League with Liverpool, is facing bankruptcy. This situation arises from a prolonged legal dispute involving his brother, Sean. The conflict has persisted for nearly a decade, primarily linked to a failed property business.

Legal Struggles and Bankruptcy Petition

The troubles began when Finnan expressed concerns about his brother’s management of the business in 2016. This prompted him to file a lawsuit, subsequently leading to a £4 million settlement at the High Court in 2018. However, Finnan did not receive any funds from this settlement.

In July 2019, Sean Finnan was declared bankrupt, which added to the familial strain and legal issues. Finnan became embroiled in several court battles, including an unsuccessful attempt to have a lawyer from Charles Russell Speechlys jailed for contempt in a failed negligence claim that sought £6 million. As a result of this litigation, he now faces a significant costs bill.

Ongoing Court Proceedings

Currently, Finnan is confronting a bankruptcy petition at the Central London County Court. He has not settled his outstanding debts, which have led to this predicament. Disputes with solicitors taking over his legal case, Candey Ltd, have further complicated matters. After losing a disagreement regarding their fees, he remains in a precarious financial position.

This month, his case reached the High Court. Finnan sought to appeal previous orders related to his bankruptcy case but was informed by Mr. Justice Mellor that his appeal only served to delay proceedings and lacked merit.

History of Finnan’s Football Career

• Age: 49
• Place of Birth: Limerick, Ireland
• Clubs: Fulham, Liverpool, Portsmouth
• International Appearances: Over 50 for the Irish national team
• Major Achievements: Champions League and FA Cup victories

Finnan represented himself in court, asserting that the complexity of the case warranted a review by a High Court judge. He raised concerns about perceived bias from District Judge Carla Revere, who oversaw earlier proceedings. However, the judge dismissed his appeal on grounds that it was largely procedural and lacking in substantive issues.

Future of the Bankruptcy Case

No specific date has been set for the return of Finnan’s bankruptcy case to court. With further directions anticipated, the path ahead remains uncertain for the former football star.