Wellington Phoenix have denied reports that midfielder Tim Payne was arrested, after a joyriding incident during the A-League team's coronavirus quarantine in Sydney.
Football Federation Australia is investigating the incident, which also involved goalkeeper Ollie Sail.
According to a Newscorp report, Payne was arrested, while driving a golf buggy at 1am on Wakehurst Parkway on Sydney's northern beaches on Tuesday.
The Phoenix were based at the Sydney Academy of Sport, while in self-isolation to play A-League games. The pair are alleged to have taken the buggy from the academy.
Teammate Sail was also in the buggy, but reportedly wasn't arrested.
The FFA says the matter is being taken very seriously and if any misconduct is found to have occurred, it will take action under the code's national code of conduct.
Phoenix players returned home to New Zealand on Tuesday, after the A-League was suspended, and Newscorp reports Payne could avoid attending court in Sydney by lodging his plea from New Zealand in absence.
The club has confirmed that Payne and Sail were involved in an incident, while in self-isolation, involving "the use and damage of facility property".
"The Wellington Phoenix is taking the matter very seriously and has begun internal investigations.
"Disciplinary action will follow, should the players be found in contravention of club policies and protocols.
"Please note that Payne was not arrested, despite reports to the contrary.
AAP/Newshub
