A LEADING Spanish footballer has been dropped by a top English side after an investigation was launched in relation to allegations made on social media.
Alex Jimenez, 21, has been left out of AFC Bournemouth’s squad for the side’s crunch Premier League match against Fulham this afternoon after screenshots were shared online, appearing to show alleged text conversations between the Spaniard and a girl who said she was aged 15.
“AFC Bournemouth are aware of posts circulating on social media involving right-back Alex Jimenez,” the club said in a statement on Friday.
“The club understand the seriousness of the matter and it is currently being investigated.
“As a result, Alex will not be included in the squad for tomorrow’s Premier League game against Fulham and the club will be making no further comment at this time.”
AFC Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola, a fellow Spaniard, told BBC Radio Solent: “The club has to do their investigations and see what has really happened.
“We will then move from there. I hope it’s not what we think.”
The Leganes-born defender, who celebrated his 21st birthday on Friday, joined the Cherries from AC Milan in the summer.
He joined on an initial loan deal, before signing a permanent five-and-a-half year deal halfway through the season.
Jimenez spent more than a decade with the Real Madrid academy and has made four appearances for Spain’s U21 side.
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