Jarryd Hayne has again denied an allegation of rape made against him by a US woman.
Parramatta Eels player Hayne fronted media for the first time after his training session with the Eels, since the allegation emerged last month.
His Australian lawyer, Ramy Qutami, said his client was yet to be served any formal documentation about the civil matter brought against him by the woman.
The US civil suit claims he raped a 29-year-old woman in late 2015 during his stint in the NFL.
A criminal case was rejected by the Santa Clara County District Attorney's Office in October 2016 due to a lack of evidence.
The woman is now pursuing the two-time Dally M winner on claims of sexual battery, gender violence, infliction of emotional distress and negligence.
Mr Qutami said his firm had made contact with the woman’s lawyers and Hayne will be defending the claim with the help of Baute Crochetiere & Hartley LLP’s Mark Baute in the US.
“Mr Hayne is innocent and will ask a United States jury to find him innocent,” Mr Baute said in a statement issued on Wednesday.
“There is no objective evidence of any sexual assault in this matter and the lawsuit lacks merit.
“We do not intend to ‘try this case in the media’ and will refrain from further comment, other to say that Mr Hayne and I look forward to the day when a jury can decide he is innocent.”
During Wednesday’s press conference, Hayne deflected questions about the accusation and referred reporters to his lawyers.
He said the allegation had been “tough” and “pretty emotional” for his family.
Hayne later issued a written statement, saying: “The last week or so have been personally distressing for not only me but my family and friends.
“I confirm that I unequivocally and vehemently deny the allegations made against me and I will be vigorously defending the matter.
“I’d like to thank all the family, friends and fans who have both privately and publicly sent messages of support.
“My request to the media is to provide my family and I respect and privacy at this time.
“I have the utmost faith in the United States justice system and have left this matter with my legal team.”
- with AAP
