April 6 – England defender Kyle Walker faces disciplinary action from his club Manchester City after reportedly breaking Covid-19 lockdown rules by hosting a party involving two sex workers.
In a statement, City said Walker’s actions had “directly contravened” his responsibility as a role model and that it would be holding an investigation.
A report in the Sun newspaper said Walker and a friend paid £2,200 for two escorts to visit his home last Tuesday. It was reported they left on Wednesday, the same day the England right-back used social media to urge the public to follow government guidelines on social distancing.
A City spokesman said: “Manchester City are aware of a story in a tabloid newspaper regarding the private life of Kyle Walker in relation to a breach of the UK lockdown and social distancing rules. Footballers are global role models and our staff and players have been working to support the incredible efforts of the NHS and other key workers in fighting the effects of Covid-19, in any way we can.
“Kyle’s actions in this matter have directly contravened these efforts. We are disappointed to hear the allegations, note Kyle’s swift statement and apology, and will be conducting an internal disciplinary procedure.”
Walker, who has 48 England caps, did his best to wriggle out of being heavily punished by apologising and again urging people to “stay home, stay safe” during the pandemic.
“I want to take this opportunity to issue a public apology for the choices I made last week,” he said.
“I understand that my position as a professional footballer brings the responsibility of being a role model. As such, I want to apologise to my family, friends, football club, supporters and the public for letting them down.’
Walker is not the first top-flight English player to step out of line during the lockdown. Aston Villa punished their highly touted midfielder Jack Grealish with a fine that was donated to charity after he defied the ban on non-essential travel by going to visit a friend.
Meanwhile former England captain Wayne Rooney has reportedly been cautioned by police after being spotted walking with Walker, who lives close by, along a golf course with their families – flouting rules to only be accompanied by those of your own household.
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