Reynolds Porter Chamberlain (RPC) and media boutique Russells Solicitors are advising on the a dispute between former Smiths frontman Morrissey and music magazine NME which could see one of the first UK libel cases heard before a jury in recent years.

NME has requested to strike out the libel lawsuit, which was brought against the magazine's former editor Conor McNicholas and its publisher IPC Media by Morrissey (pictured) four years ago.

Morrissey's lawyers – Russells and 5RB's David Sherborne QC – have said he is willing to be cross-examined as a witness in the case if the trial goes ahead.

The dispute stems from an NME interview in which Morrissey discussed the impact of immigration on Britain's cultural identity. The singer claims he has suffered reputational damage as a result of the magazine's interpretation of his words.

The NME, which is being represented by RPC media partner Keith Mathieson and One Brick Court's Catrin Evans QC, has asked a judge to strike out the case because Morrissey "hasn't done anything to progress it for three years".

5RB's Sherborne was also recently instructed as one of the barristers to handle the phone-hacking claim brought by Berwin Leighton Paisner partner Graham Shear against the News of The World in July this year, as well as the successful claim brought against the now-defunct tabloid by actress Sienna Miller in May.