Armitage’s England hopes dented following arrest for alleged assault
FORMER England flanker Steffon Armitage is set to appear in court next month after being questioned by police over an alleged attack at a beachfront restaurant in Toulon.
European Player of the Year Armitage and team-mate Xavier Chiocci were arrested and interviewed on Wednesday after a 30-year-old man sustained an eye injury as players celebrated Toulon’s European Champions Cup victory over Leicester on 13 December.
The 29-year-old was released on bail yesterday morning on condition he returns for a hearing on February 10, while Toulon have threatened to invoke their own disciplinary procedure.
“Xavier Chiocci’s custody ended on Wednesday night and no charges were brought against him. Steffon Armitage’s custody lasted through the night. If need be, RC Toulon will impose the necessary sanctions to preserve their core values,” read a club statement.
Armitage has won five England caps but is not currently under consideration for the international duty because of England’s policy not to select overseas-based players.