Former England player reportedly arrested on suspicion of attempted rape

He was arrested at Stansted Airport.

A former England and Premier League footballer has reportedly been arrested on suspicion of attempted rape.

The Sun report that the player was detained at Stansted Airport following allegations from an ex-partner.

Police say the player has been bailed following further inquiries.

The Sun reports that the player was stopped at passport control due to a non-recent allegation of attempted rape reported by a former partner.

A source 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.”

The complaint was allegedly made several weeks ago, prompting an investigation.

After being arrested at Stansted Airport he was driven to a local police station where his fingerpints, DNA sample, and mugshot were taken.

He was held for a number of hours before being released on bail pending further inquiries.

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 inquiries.”

The player's identity has not been made public for legal reasons.