Norwich City star Andrew Omobamidele will NOT have to stand trial for a driving offence, as the case against him has been dropped.

The Canaries defender had been charged with not being in proper control while driving a Range Rover Sport in Norwich Road, Hethersett, near the club's training ground, at around 11am on May 5.

Prosecutors initially claimed that as Omobamidele approached a junction he lifted a large water bottle while "steering the vehicle with only one hand on the steering wheel".

 

Police originally charged the Republic of Ireland international for the offence, before his solicitor entered a not guilty plea on his behalf on May 31 at Norwich Magistrates Court.

The case was listed for trial on February 29, 2024, but upon review by the Criminal Prosecution Service, the case has been dropped.

Dave Foulkes, the solicitor who represents the 21-year-old, said: "We would've won the case had it gone to trial.

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Norwich Evening News: Andrew Omobamidele plays for Norwich City and the Republic of IrelandAndrew Omobamidele plays for Norwich City and the Republic of Ireland (Image: Paul Chesterton/Focus Images Ltd)

"The case was discontinued by the Crown Prosecution Service as there was no evidence to provide a realistic prospect of conviction.

"I spoke to Andrew, who maintained his innocence throughout and is aware of the outcome.

"He said he was very pleased the case was discontinued and that a sensible decision had been made."

The centre-back had been issued with a driving course and conditional offer of a fixed penalty as a result of the incident, five days after City's relegation from the Premier League was confirmed.

But the course had not been completed and neither his penalty payment or driving licence were received within the time constraints.

Norwich Evening News: Norwich City defender Andrew Omobamidele will no longer have to stand trial over a motoring incident involving a water bottleNorwich City defender Andrew Omobamidele will no longer have to stand trial over a motoring incident involving a water bottle (Image: Paul Chesterton/Focus Images)

 

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Omobamidele is a Canaries academy graduate, having been signed by City in 2018, at the age of 16, from Leixlip United in Ireland.

Last year he signed a new contract extending his stay at Carrow Road until 2026.

However, his future at the club has been in doubt after being linked to top-flight clubs including AC Milan and Nottingham Forest.