Liverpool attacker Roberto Firmino has been slapped with a £20,000 fine and banned from driving for one year after admitting to driving drunk at the Liverpool Magistrates’ Court Wednesday.
The 25-year-old Brazilian international was breathalysed and charged with drunk driving after having his Range Rover pulled over by police in the Liverpool city centre on Christmas Eve.
“I apologise, without reservation, to the club, the manager, my teammates and the supporters for putting myself in this situation,” Firmino said in a statement, courtesy of ESPN FC.
“What I have done is wrong and sets a bad example. I promise to everyone in the LFC family that I will learn from this mistake, learn from this experience, and not repeat it in the future.”
Firmino’s lawyer, Michael Hogan, added context during Wednesday’s court date, saying the incident took place the day after the footballer’s home was targetted by burglars who were “prepared to use extreme force.”
The club spokesperson added, “The player has been disciplined by the club for his actions and reminded of his responsibilities for the present and future.
“The nature of this action will remain private, however it does not impact on his availability for selection for matches.”
Firmino’s court date was initially scheduled for Tuesday, which was later moved so as not to interfere with Liverpool’s Premier League visit from leader Chelsea.
“The club considers this to be an isolated incident and a rare lapse in judgement and professionalism. We will however work with the player to further educate him on the dangers associated with drink driving specifically,” Liverpool’s statement said in closing.
TheScore.com
