Shane Duffy: Norwich City footballer charged with drink-driving just days before Leeds clash

Norwich City centre back Shane Duffy has been charged with drink-driving following a two-vehicle crash. The 32-year-old was arrested in Hethersett, near Norwich, on Monday 6 May, less than a week before his side’s crucial play-off semi-final against Leeds United.

A statement from Norfolk Police said: “Police were called to Queen’s Road, Hethersett, 21.05 on Monday 6 May, following reports of a two-vehicle collision.

“Emergency services attended the scene and a man, aged in his 30s, was arrested on suspicion of drink driving. He was taken to Wymondham Police Investigation Centre for questioning. No-one was injured.”

Norwich City football club say that they are aware of the incident involving one of their first team players and are dealing with the matter internally. A spokesman of Norwich Common Wymondham said Duffy “has been charged with driving while unfit through drink, having provided an evidential breath sample of 102mcg.”

The legal limit is 35 micrograms per 100 millilitres of breath meaning that Duffy was allegedly more than three times over the limit.

Duffy has been a key player for Norwich since arriving from Fulham on a free transfer in the summer. The Republic of Ireland international has made 36 league appearances and has scored one goal.

He also had spells at Celtic, Brighton, Blackburn Rovers, Everton and Yeovil earlier in his career. Duffy is scheduled to face Leeds United in the Championship play-off semi-final on Sunday 12 May and Thursday 16 May. It remains to be seen whether recent events will affect his chances of selection.

The 60-time Republic of Ireland international is due to appear before magistrates in Norwich in July, after the conclusion of the Championship season.