English footballer Jack Grealish says he is "deeply embarrassed", after being caught breaking the United Kingdom's coronavirus lockdown.
The Aston Villa captain was pictured at the scene of a car accident, just 24 hours after urging Brits to stay home and self-isolate.
Various UK media outlets reported Grealish's car had hit several parked vehicles in Solihull, Birmingham. The 24-year-old has been fined by the club, with the proceeds donated to charity.
"I got a call from a friend asking to go round and I stupidly agreed," Grealish posted on social media. "I don't want anyone to make the same mistake I did.
"I know it's a tough time for everyone at the moment, being locked indoors for so long, but I urge everyone to stay indoors and follow the guidelines. I know I'll be doing that in the near future now."
West Midlands Police said they were called to Solihull, after reports that a Range Rover had crashed into two parked cars in the street, causing minor damage.
On Sunday (UK time), online images surfaced of a damaged white Range Rover, and what appeared to be the Villa midfielder in slippers and a bright blue hoodie.
"Aston Villa is deeply disappointed that one of our players ignored the Government's guidance on staying at home during the coronavirus crisis," said the club.
"Club captain Jack Grealish has accepted that his decision to leave his house was wrong and entirely unnecessary."
A key player for relegation-threatened Aston Villa, Greakish is a reported target for Manchester United for next season.
