A former England and Premier League footballer has reportedly been arrested on suspicion of attempted rape.
The player, who represented the Three Lions in the 2010s, was led away by Border Force guards while trying to board a flight at Stansted Airport on Sunday night.
He was stopped at passport control after details showed he was wanted over a non-recent allegation of attempted rape made by a former partner.
Essex Police began an investigation into the Premier League star after his ex made a complaint several weeks ago. She alleged that he attempted to rape her during their relationship.
Officers were alerted to the footballer’s location and travelled to Stansted to arrest him.
The player was taken to a local police station where his fingerprints, sample and mugshot were taken.
He was held overnight in a cell for several hours before being released on bail pending further enquiries.
The identity of the footballer is unknown, however he has been ‘quite visible in public recently’, a source told The Sun.
A source who witnessed the footballer’s arrest told the Sun: ‘He was walking through passport control when he was discreetly pulled aside by Border Force.
‘There was clearly an issue and he was led away.’
There was reportedly confusion over the suspect’s arrest as he was said to have attended recent public events.
The complainant has also been interviewed by specialist sex crimes officers and has been offered counselling and support.
Essex Police said: ‘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.’
