Premier League captain at risk of jail time after confessing to Covid vaccine certificate fraud

Premier League captain at risk of jail time after confessing to Covid vaccine certificate fraud

Sunderland captain Granit Xhaka is at risk of jail time after confessing to obtaining a fraudulent Covid vaccination certificate. The 33-year-old midfielder released a statement on Instagram acknowledging the offence, which dates back to 2022, when he was still on Arsenal's books. Swiss prosecutors could impose a substantial fine on the player, who is expected to give his version of events to investigators next month. The revelation has cost Xhaka his place in the Swiss national squad, with football authorities in his home country dropping him from their forthcoming Nations League fixtures. TRENDING Stories Videos Your Say Taking to social media to comment on the situation, Xhaka wrote: "In recent days, there has been much reporting about a matter from my past. "I would like to address this personally. Regarding the Covid-19 vaccination, I was personally very uncertain and had serious concerns at the time. "I felt deep distrust of the vaccine and was plagued by fear and uncertainty. "In this turbulent emotional state, I obtained a vaccination certificate instead of clarifying my open questions through the proper channels. LATEST SPORTS NEWS Thomas Tuchel dealt heavy blow as England star set to pull out of squad ahead of international break Premier League star leaves holiday to join England squad days after Thomas Tuchel admission Liverpool and Man City land wins against Bournemouth and Sunderland "Today I clearly see that this was not the right course of action. It was a mistake. I am sorry. "I take responsibility for this decision, am committed to investigating the matter, and am fully cooperating with the relevant authorities." Xhaka met with Swiss FA chiefs to discuss the situation, and the group confirmed he should not play in their upcoming matches. The Swiss FA released a statement, reading: "Following his personal statement regarding vaccination confirmation, Granit Xhaka will not take part in the upcoming gathering of the men's national team