Norwich City defender cleared to face Leeds United just days after drink-driving charge

Centre-back Shane Duffy is available for selection for Norwich City’s play-off semi-final first leg with Leeds United on Sunday. The Republic of Ireland international has been charged with drink-driving following a two-vehicle collision on Monday night.

Norfolk Police confirmed no-one was injured at the scene, but the 32-year-old was later charged with drink-driving after providing a breath test of 102 microgrammes of alcohol , which is almost three times the legal limit of 35. Duffy is due to appear at Norwich Magistrates’ Court on July 2.

The Canaries, who ended the regular season with a 1-0 defeat at Birmingham City, said they were aware of the incident and would “consider the matter internally in accordance with their own disciplinary procedure”. Norwich boss David Wagner said: “The club has made a statement. I don’t like to talk about it too much. It is a legal process now that is ongoing. We will also evaluate it internally.

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“He’s been in full training since the beginning of the week. He trained as usual.

“Everyone was super focused, relaxed enough but excited enough, as they should be before a game like this, and that’s how we’ll handle the situation.”

Wagner, who guided the Terriers to the play-offs in 2017 and kept them in the Premier League the following season, called for calm as the Canaries prepare to take on the Whites. “Some are excited three days before the game, others are excited when we go to the pre-match table. We have to keep everyone calm and focused and then the excitement will begin,” he said.

“One of our first targets was the top six, the fight for promotion. The first step is taken, but it is only the first step.

“Everyone should accept this situation. We’ve already had some exciting games this season where players have delivered, derbies, other important must-win games where they’ve been at their best. That gives us confidence and belief that we can deliver again.

“We’ve always done it the same way and we’ll do it again – focus on the details.

“Irrelevant things you have to keep away, let them convey our messages. We’ll only have a chance if we do it together, on the field and in the stands.”