A former England football star has reportedly been arrested on suspicion of attempted rape, according to reports.
The ex-Premier League player, who represented the Three Lions in the 2010s, was led away by Border Force guards while trying to board a flight at London Stansted Airport on Sunday night.
The Sun said he was stopped at passport control after details showed he was wanted over a non-recent allegation of attempted rape made by a previous partner.
Essex Police began an investigation after his ex made a complaint several weeks ago that he allegedly attempted to rape her during their relationship.
Officers were alerted to the footballer’s location and travelled to Stansted to arrest him.
The household name, who cannot be named for legal reasons, was taken to a local police station where his fingerprints, DNA sample and mugshot were taken.
He was held overnight in a cell before being released on bail pending further enquiries.
A source who witnessed the footballer’s arrest told the newspaper: “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.
A source told The Sun: “It’s bizarre.”
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.”
