Liverpool forward Roberto Firmino handed driving ban

Liverpool midfielder Roberto Firmino leaves court after admitting a charge of drink driving

Roberto Firmino has been fined £20,000 and banned from driving for a year after admitting drink-driving at Liverpool Magistrates' Court.

The Liverpool forward was charged with drink-driving after being stopped and subsequently arrested in Liverpool on Christmas Eve.

Michael Hogan, defending the 25-year-old, said the incident happened the day after the footballer's family home was targeted by burglars who were "prepared to use extreme force".

Firmino said: "I apologise, without reservation, to the club, the manager, my team-mates and the supporters for putting myself in this situation. What I have done is wrong and sets a bad example.

"I promise to everyone in the LFC family that I will learn from this mistake, learn from this experience, and not repeat it in the future."

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Image: Firmino and wife Larissa Pereira arrive at Liverpool Magistrates' Court

A LFC spokesperson said: "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.

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"The club considers this to be an isolated incident and a rare lapse in judgement and professionalism.

Image: Firmino has scored nine goals in 29 matches for Liverpool this season

"We will however work with the player to further educate him on the dangers associated with drink driving specifically."

Firmino has since featured 10 times for Liverpool since his arrest, including Tuesday night's 1-1 draw with Premier League leaders Chelsea.

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