Manchester United midfielder Marouane Fellaini is seeking £2m in damages from sportswear provider New Balance, alleging that they provided him with "defective quality" boots.
The 30-year-old claims that the boots had to be "steamed and stretched" by a United kit man before they could be used properly, adding that they had directly impacted his performances and "enjoyment" on the pitch.
Ruth den Besten, representative of Fellaini's company Rosalina Investments, said: "The football boots supplied by New Balance were of poor quality and caused considerable damage to Mr Fellaini's feet.
"In order that the boots fit Mr Fellaini, they were required to be steamed and stretched by the Manchester United FC's assistant kit man.
"Mr Fellaini repeatedly communicated his frustration with the poor quality of the boots."
New Balance has launched a vigorous defence in response, insisting that they provided Fellaini with adequate replacements once he had lodged a complaint.
The firm's representative, Ian Mill, said: "The player orally informed Mr Simon Crawford of New Balance that he was experiencing discomfort when wearing certain boots.
"New Balance therefore arranged for the player to be provided with bespoke replacement boots."
Away from the legal dispute, the Belgian is out of contract with United at the end of this season and has been linked with moving to several top clubs around Europe, including Paris Saint-Germain.
Neil Wilkes
