Aston Villa have confirmed that they have suspended midfielder Barry Bannan until they have had a full inquiry into his high-speed motorway crash.
The accident happened on Sunday evening, after Bannan had spent the afternoon with footballing friend (and former Villa footballer) James Collins. As they were driving back towards Birmingham on the M1 their vehicle veered out of control, and it was only sheer chance that meant that nobody was hurt.
There have been unconfirmed suspicions that Bannan was over the drink-drive limit, and until the police investigation has been closed, Bannan is unlikely to play for Villa.
"Barry Bannan has been suspended while the club carries out internal enquiries into allegations which arose last weekend," said Villa boss Alex McLeish.
"He will not be available for this weekend's game at Sunderland."