Aston Villa star John Carew faces the wrath of Martin O'Neill over strip club claims

Oct 25 2008

VILLA striker John Carew is facing the wrath of boss Martin O’Neill after he was spotted at a Birmingham lap dancing club just hours before a crucial European clash with Dutch giants Ajax.

Furious O’Neill dropped the Norwegian star for the big game at Villa Park on Thursday night after the goal machine was seen with a female companion enjoying a sexy stripshow at The Rocket Club in Broad Street.

O’Neill said at the time that Carew – Villa’s joint top scorer this season – had been left out due to tiredness.

Spotted

But Villa season-ticket holder Mike McKiernen, a businessman from Staffordshire, claims he spotted the star in The Rocket Club at 1am on Thursday morning.

“He must have realised that visiting a bar late at night in the city’s main entertainment area just hours before a big game was not the wisest move,” Mr McKiernen said. “He is the city’s tallest footballer and so recognisable.”

Carew could face a fine of up to two weeks’ wages, which would cost the big frontman around £100,000.