An ex-Celtic star and former Arsenal player was reportedly arrested by armed police officers at London’s Gatwick International airport.
Former Celtic star and Arsenal player Anthony Stokes was returning from a break in Dubai when he was reportedly picked up by armed police officers at London’s Gatwick airport. According to The Sun, Anthony Stokes had an outstanding arrest warrant out for his arrest.
Anthony Stokes played for Celtic in spells from 2010 to 2016, and in 192 appearances the forward scored 76 goals and added an additional 64 assists. After leaving the Hoops his career took a bit of a downturn.
Anthony Stokes recently signed a deal with Iranian-side Persepolis FC, but had not showed up to the club, and his whereabouts were unknown.
The Sun reports that Anthony Stokes blamed coronavirus on his absence, among other interesting tidbits that led up to his arrest:
"“One passenger who was on Friday’s flight said: “I heard raised voices in the cabin and we were all told to stay in our seats for them to deal with someone on the plane.“They asked for Mr Anthony C Stokes to come to the front of the plane with his luggage.“He was walked off and I later saw him and another man standing by the baggage belts.”“A spokesperson for Police Scotland said: “A 31-year-old man has been arrested in connection with an outstanding warrant.”“Stokes, who made one senior appearance for Arsenal from 2005-07, earlier shared pictures with Instagram followers of his stay at the luxury Palm Jumeirah Dubai hotel.“His club revealed they had no idea of his whereabouts after claiming he failed to return to training — and it was alleged he had blamed coronavirus.”"
It remains to be seen what the outcome of the arrest will be, or how it will affect his standing with his current club. This situation will be worth keeping an eye on as Anthony Stokes was a big part of the Hoops culture during his stint with the club.
Extra Time:
- Rumours of Steven Gerrard leaving or resigning from Rangers are starting to heat up after his side saw an early exit in the Scottish Cup at the hands of Hearts, leaving them in great danger of going through another trophyless season.
- Jackie McNamara breaks his silence on his medical status after a scary last few weeks.
- Finally, could there be a falling out between Alfredo Morelos and Steven Gerrard?