A millionaire's stalking spree forced a frightened Liverpool football player to employ personal security.

A millionaire's persistent stalking prompted Liverpool midfielder Marie Hobinger to employ personal security.

The footballer was alarmed after receiving repeated inappropriate messages via Instagram from the businessman.

Court proceedings revealed that a footballer engaged a bodyguard after being stalked by a wealthy individual.

The communications contained his personal phone number, and he invited her to meet with him.

Concerned for her safety, the Austrian national team player enlisted a security official to transport her to and from WSL games.

During February, Dalal journeyed from London to Manchester to observe Höbinger's match against Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium.

Law enforcement was contacted when he was found waiting for her adjacent to the playing field.

The divorced Marylebone resident, Dalal, acknowledges the stalking charges but claims he was experiencing mental health issues during that period.

Liverpool Justices of the Peace granted him bail pending sentencing in January and ordered him to refrain from contacting Marie or referencing her on social platforms.

District Judge James Clarke postponed the proceeding, stating: "Having reviewed the documentation, I do not believe a monetary penalty would be suitable for this case.

"I am additionally troubled that the hearing was previously delayed for a psychological evaluation. I request the probation service conduct an assessment to determine what recommendations they might propose."

The matter was moved to Westminster Magistrates Court, with a sentencing hearing scheduled for January 20.

The 24-year-old Höbinger transferred to Liverpool FC Women in July 2023 from FC Zurich Frauen, having secured two league championships and a Swiss Women's Cup during her tenure there.