Jamie Carragher is taking steps to resolve a private tax dispute after HM Revenue and Customs launched bankruptcy proceedings against the former Liverpool defender.

Court documents confirm that HMRC filed a bankruptcy petition against Carragher on Wednesday.

The case reportedly concerns a tax liability of between £700,000 and £800,000. The precise figure has not been publicly confirmed by HMRC.

Carragher’s representatives have moved quickly to reassure the public that the former footballer is working to settle the matter.

A spokesperson said the issue should have been resolved earlier and that the necessary steps were being taken to bring it to an end.

The representative added that the matter was expected to be resolved imminently and would not proceed further.

HMRC also sought to put the proceedings into context, saying it takes a supportive approach towards people with tax debts who engage with the authority.

The tax authority said it can work with taxpayers to arrange instalment payments and described bankruptcy petitions as a last resort.

Carragher’s case is being handled through the Insolvency and Companies Court, a specialist division of the High Court dealing with insolvency matters.

The former defender enjoyed a highly successful playing career at Liverpool, where he made 737 appearances and won several major trophies.

Among his greatest achievements was the 2005 Champions League triumph in Istanbul, when Liverpool famously came from 3-0 down against AC Milan to win on penalties.

After retiring in 2013, Carragher moved into television punditry and became a prominent analyst of Premier League and European football.

He has since worked extensively with Sky Sports and CBS Sports.

While the reported tax bill is substantial, Carragher’s representatives have indicated that the current proceedings are expected to end once the outstanding matter is settled.