Tottenham trio await their fate after breaking Covid restrictions

THREE Tottenham players are facing heavy fines from their club and possible police action for breaching Covid restrictions as the pandemic continues to disrupt English football.

Sergio Reguilon, Erik Lamela and Giovani Lo Celso will be punished after they and West Ham’s Manuel Lanzini were pictured on social media celebrating Christmas together with their families — appearing to break Tier Four rules that prohibit the mixing of different bubbles.

Both clubs issued statements condemning their actions and three of the players sent apologies on social media.

The photograph showed the four footballers posing closely together for a group photograph with 11 other adults, including one dressed as Father Christmas, and three babies and toddlers.

Lamela tweeted: ‘I want to apologise for a decision I made over Christmas which I deeply regret. On reflection I understand the seriousness of my actions and the impact it has on others. I am truly thankful to everyone working hard to keep us safe and I feel ashamed knowing I’ve let people down.’

Lo Celso responded to fans’ criticisms by posting: ‘I want to apologise to everyone — I understand the great sacrifices people are making to keep themselves and loved ones safe and the frustration you have expressed towards me is justified.’

Lanzini posted on Twitter, accompanied by four praying emojis: ‘I want to apologise for a bad mistake I made over Christmas and I take full responsibility for my actions. I know people have made difficult sacrifices to stay safe and I should be setting a better example.’

Spurs boss Jose Mourinho said he was ‘disappointed’ by the actions of his players.

Earlier, Tottenham released a club statement, saying: ‘We strongly condemn this image as we know the sacrifices everybody around the country made to stay safe over the festive period.

‘The rules are clear, there are no exceptions. We regularly remind our players and staff about the latest protocols and their responsibilities to adhere and set an example. The matter will be dealt with internally.’

There was better news on the pitch for Mourinho’s men yesterday as Spurs won 3-0 at home to Leeds United.

Harry Kane netted a 29th-minute penalty to open the scoring. Son Heung-min scored the second just before the break and Toby Alderweireld sealed the victory.