Sydney Roosters hooker Jake Friend has pleaded not guilty to giving police a false name when he was awoken after allegedly passing out in the back of a taxi.

In Waverley Local Court on Monday, the 20-year-old also pleaded not guilty to failing to pay his taxi fare and to using offensive language near or in a public place.

The charges relate to an incident in the early hours of Sunday, December 13, last year in Sydney's east.

The cabbie driving Friend had sought assistance from police after being unable to wake his allegedly intoxicated passenger.

The matter has been adjourned to Sydney's Downing Central Local Court on July 19, when a hearing date is expected to be set.

Brought to you by AAP © 2024 AAP