Arturo Vidal booked for drunk driving
Chile midfielder Arturo Vidal was involved in a car crash on Tuesday and was taken to hospital with light injuries. The accident occurred after Chile’s match with Mexico, a match wherein he scored 2 goals.
"Because he was driving under the influence of alcohol...(Vidal) is being held," said local Police chief Ricardo Gonzalez.
According to a report from AFP, Gonzalez refused to speak about how much alcohol was in the Juventus player's system.
Vidal later tweeted about the incident stating: "Unfortunately I found myself involved in a traffic accident, Luckily we are all well and quiet . Thanks x worry!”
Upon being asked about the incident, Chile’s coach Jorge Sampaoli, confirmed that Vidal will not be withdrawn from the squad: “Arturo's accident worried us all. The first thing that crossed our minds were his health and his family. We will see how he is.”
“He is a very valuable player who has made a mistake, but not the kind of mistake to exclude him. He was in his free time after all. I don't believe this is as serious as some have tried to portray it.” He added.
“At this point it'd be easier to exclude him than to include him. And if we notice anything that affects the national team, we will make a decision on that. An internal correction. But it's not in my nature to single out and exclude someone for making a mistake.”He further said.
According to local media reports, Vidal was being kept overnight. Vidal is top scorer in the Copa America with three goals for Chile so far. Chile play their third and final group game against Bolivia in the capital on Friday.