A SOLICITOR for former Celtic and Northern Ireland footballer Paddy McCourt has said his client “absolutely denies” allegations that he sexually assaulted a woman in a Derry bar.
Mr McCourt (38) has been charged in relation to an alleged incident at a nightspot in the city last Saturday.
He is expected to appear at Derry Magistrates Court on February 23.
Known as the “Derry Pele”, Mr McCourt was considered one of the finest players in Ireland during a long and successful career.
Following spells with Rochdale, Shamrock Rovers and his native Derry City, he eventually signed with Celtic FC and won two Scottish Cup medals and two league titles over five seasons with the club. He also played 18 times for Northern Ireland.
Mr McCourt’s solicitor, Ciaran Shiels, confirmed McCourt had been charged.
He said a member of his client’s family was contacted by police on Sunday about a “complaint” made earlier in the day.
“Mr McCourt then immediately presented himself at Strand Road PSNI station. He remained there until police were ready to interview him that evening in respect of [an] alleged sexual assault on a female.
“He was interviewed twice and answered every single question put to him by police. He maintained his innocence consistently throughout and commented fully on the limited evidence put to him."
Mr Shiels said he believed the decision to charge Mr McCourt was “wholly premature and irregular”.
The solicitor said in normal circumstances when a person is suspected of such a charge and when investigative and forensic work remained outstanding, a release on police bail would be expected.
“It is not appropriate to comment further at this time, other than to say, Mr McCourt absolutely denies the allegation and that we are confident that Mr McCourt will be vindicated and his good name restored,” he said.
Mr Shiels said a forensic inquiry into the alleged incident could take up to six months.
A PSNI spokesman said police did not comment on named individuals.
“No inference should be drawn from this,” the spokesman added.
