Premier League player ‘threatened with a gun’ as agent arrested

A Premier League footballer and a family member were allegedly threatened with a gun in the street during a row with a football agent.

The agent, 31, was arrested after an alleged late-night confrontation with the footballer on a busy street near restaurants.

The player, who is in his 20s and has established himself a first-team regular in the top tier, was targeted in Barnet, north London. Telegraph Sport understands the row escalated after the player chose not to use the agent’s services.

Police were called to the scene shortly after 11pm on Saturday, September 6. Nobody was injured but the agent, who cannot be named for legal reasons, was arrested at his home later. The suspect, who has previously worked with players at international level, has been questioned over allegations of blackmail and driving without a licence in addition to a firearm offence.

The Metropolitan Police said in a statement: “Police were called at 23.14hrs on Saturday, 6 September, to reports a man in his 20s had been threatened with a firearm on Cockfosters Parade, Barnet.

“Officers spoke to the victim and during the course of their investigation it was also reported another man in his 20s had also allegedly been blackmailed and threatened by the same individual. No injuries were reported in either incident. A 31-year-old man was arrested on Monday, 8 September on suspicion of possession of firearms with intent, blackmail and driving without a licence. He has been bailed while enquiries continue.”

The Sun, which first reported the alleged attack, quoted a source claiming the “player was understandably shaken up”.

“He reported it right away,” the source added. “It was the right thing to do for his safety. He has been supported by his friends and club and they all hope it will not impact his performances.”

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