Footballer Michael Timlin charged over speeding offences

Image caption, Southend United footballer Michael Timlin is charged with perverting the course of justice

A footballer has been charged with perverting the course of justice over alleged speeding offences.

Southend United midfielder Michael Timlin, 28, of Pomeroy Street, south east London, appeared before magistrates in the town on Wednesday.

He is charged with supplying false information to Essex Police in November 2010 and May and December 2012.

The alleged speeding offences were in October 2010 and April and December 2012.

Mr Timlin is also charged with exceeding the 50mph speed limit in his Audi A3 on the A127 in Rayleigh on 4 December 2012.

The footballer joined League Two Southend United on loan from Swindon Town in September 2010 and was signed by the club in August 2011.

The club would not comment on the charges and said negotiations were taking place over a new contract with the player.