Ward vents frustration at partying players after Covid restrictions breach

Birmingham City manager Carla Ward has spoken of her shock, anger and disappointment at the behaviour of her players after two members of her squad were suspended for attending a party with several Leicester City players despite coronavirus stay-at-home restrictions remaining in place.

"The behaviour was completely unacceptable," said Ward. "I was shocked because it was very out of character. They are privileged individuals so they crossed a line.

"The one way I felt I could discipline them and make them understand it is absolutely not what I expect was by taking away what they love, live and breathe - which is football."

Ward was particularly incensed at the insensitivity shown to club captain Harriet Scott, who has worked on Covid wards as part of her studies for a medical degree.

"I've made it very clear to the group that under no circumstance will this be tolerated on my watch," she added.