A former England international and Premier League footballer has been arrested on suspicion of attempted rape following an incident at a UK airport.
Arrest at Passport Control
The man was detained by Border Force officers at Stansted Airport's passport control on December 2, 2025. The arrest came after an ex-partner reported an alleged assault said to have occurred during their past relationship.
According to a source, the individual was discreetly pulled aside while walking through the border checkpoint. "There was clearly an issue and he was led away," the source stated. The footballer, who represented England during the 2010s, was held for several hours during which police took his fingerprints and DNA samples.
Police Investigation and Bail
Essex Police confirmed the arrest in an official statement. "A man has been arrested on suspicion of attempted rape and has been bailed to a date in late February 2026 while we continue our enquiries," a spokesperson said.
The force described the allegation as "non-recent," meaning it relates to an incident that happened some time ago. It is understood the report was made to police several weeks prior to the airport arrest. For legal reasons, the identity of the suspect cannot currently be revealed.
Ongoing Legal Process
The case remains under active investigation. The former professional player has been released on bail with conditions, requiring him to return to police in late February of next year.
This development highlights the serious nature of the allegations against a figure who once played at the highest levels of English football. The investigation is ongoing, and no further details have been released by authorities at this time.
