Michael Avenatti, accused of fraud by Stormy Daniels, to represent himself

• Judge grants request after breakdown' with trial lawyers
• Adult actor Daniels says Avenatti stole money she was owed

The once-prominent attorney Michael Avenatti is now representing himself at his latest criminal trial, a move that sets the stage for a confrontation with his former client, the adult film-maker and actor Stormy Daniels, over her claim that he stole money she was owed for a book.

In court in Manhattan on Tuesday, on the second day of Avenatti's trial on charges of wire fraud and aggravated identity theft, US district judge Jesse M Furman granted Avenatti's request to represent himself after he cited a breakdown" with his lawyers over trial strategy.