An England international footballer has admitted to committing six speeding offences within a mere two-month period, resulting in a driving ban.
Appearing at Nottingham Magistrates` Court this week, the player received a fine totaling £3,996 and three penalty points for each violation.
Morgan Gibbs-White, the 25-year-old midfielder for Nottingham Forest and England, had his driving licence suspended for six months after entering a guilty plea during his sentencing hearing on Monday.
The professional athlete admitted to significantly exceeding the 70mph speed limit on a dual carriageway, as well as breaking a stricter 60mph limit on other occasions.
One instance saw Gibbs-White recorded at an astonishing 96mph between Stragglethorpe Road and Lings Bar Road, adding another speeding charge to his record.
Further offences occurred on December 5th, at both 1:02 am and 7:13 pm, and again on Christmas Day at 9:18 am.
Although initially facing a hefty £6,000 penalty for the offences, the amount was reduced after he pleaded guilty.
The individual fines were lowered to £666 each. He was also ordered to pay a £1,598 victim surcharge and £110 in court costs.
Collectively, these incidents resulted in 19 penalty points on his licence. This is a substantial number, especially considering that accumulating 12 points within three years typically leads to a driving ban.
Gibbs-White has been a key figure in helping Nottingham Forest maintain their position in the Premier League during their first two seasons back in the top flight.
He joined the club on a five-year deal, with an initial transfer fee reportedly around £25 million.
An additional £17 million in potential add-ons was also part of the agreement.
On May 28, 2023, his significant contribution was recognised when he was voted Nottingham Forest Player of the Season, further boosting his profile.
His strong performances reportedly attracted the attention of Manchester City.
Reports suggest that a potential move to the club is being considered, potentially as a replacement for departing midfield maestro Kevin de Bruyne.
However, Nottingham Forest are reportedly demanding a £100 million transfer fee for the England midfielder, who has contributed five goals and nine assists in 34 Premier League appearances this season.
The club performed well for much of the campaign, sitting in the top five at one point, but has since dropped to seventh.
Gibbs-White described the team`s recent dip in form as “just frustrating.”
He commented, “We`re new to it but we`re still fighting and building as a team and a club.”
“It`s been a tough season, very demanding, especially considering the positions we`ve found ourselves in,” he added.
“I can`t pinpoint a specific reason for it,” he admitted.
“Fatigue? Tiredness? But we cannot offer excuses because the fans deserve better. We shouldn’t be conceding goals the way we have here, it`s simply frustrating.”
