Roberto Firmino accepts drink-driving charge in court

Liverpool striker Roberto Firmino has accepted a drink-driving ban in court on Wednesday.

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Firmino, 25, was pulled over by police in Liverpool when driving his car at 3 a.m. local time on Christmas Eve. His defense, Michael Hogan, said the incident happened the day after Firmino’s home was targeted by burglars who were “prepared to use extreme force.”

He was charged with DUI and Firmino accepted the charge in court. He was fined $25,000 and banned from driving for a year.

Liverpool Football Club released the following statement on Firmino.

“The player has been disciplined by the club for his actions and reminded of his responsibilities for the present and future. The nature of this action will remain private, however it does not impact on his availability for selection for matches. The club considers this to be an isolated incident and a rare lapse in judgement and professionalism. We will however work with the player to further educate him on the dangers associated with drink driving specifically.”

The forward, who signed from Hoffenheim last summer for $36.6 million, was supposed to be in court on Tuesday but a request to delay his hearing was met and he instead played in Liverpool’s 1-1 draw against Chelsea at Anfield.

In that game Firmino missed two glorious chances, one a shot just after half time and he also headed over just before second half stoppage time.

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