A former England and Premier League player has been arrested at Stansted Airport on suspicion of attempted rape following an allegation from an ex-partner.
A former England and Premier League footballer was arrested at London’s Stansted Airport after being stopped by Border Force while attempting to board a flight, according to a report from The Standard.
The arrest follows an allegation by an ex-partner of a non-recent attempted rape reportedly committed during their past relationship.
Essex Police — alerted after the complaint was filed several weeks ago — travelled to the airport and detained the 2010s-era international.
At the station, authorities collected the suspect’s fingerprints and a DNA sample, and held him for several hours before releasing him on bail.
A source who witnessed the arrest said: “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 alleged victim has since been interviewed by specialist sex-crimes officers and offered counselling and support.
Essex Police said the suspect is due to return for further questioning in late February 2026, as enquiries into the matter continue.