Footballer 'deeply regrets' homophobic comments

Cardiff City defender Mahlon Romeo said he 'deeply regrets' his actions

A Cardiff City footballer has been accused of making homophobic comments towards a police officer when he was arrested on suspicion of drink driving.

Mahlon Romeo, 28, said he "deeply regrets" his actions and wants to "re-iterate his apologies to anybody who has been offended" by the comments he made.

The footballer has since pleaded guilty to drink driving and abusing a police officer.

Cardiff City said they are dealing with the matter internally.

In a statement, the 28-year-old said he would like to "sincerely apologise" to the club and its supporters for his actions on 8 February 2024.

He said in the past he has "worked hard to fight against discrimination and prejudice", so his actions are of "great personal disappointment".

Mr Romeo said he sent a letter to the police officer involved at the time, "unreservedly apologising" for his comments and explaining that "they do not reflect his personality, beliefs or historic behaviour".

He added: "Those who know me closely know that I do not hold any prejudice against anyone based on their sexual orientation or sexuality.

"I deeply regret the course of events that occurred that night, and I would like to re-iterate my apologies to anybody who has been offended by the comments that I made."