Former Liverpool winger Jordon Ibe has avoided a prison sentence after admitting to assaulting his former girlfriend, Amie Mayson, during an argument in south London.
The 30-year-old footballer was handed a 12-month community order by Croydon Magistrates’ Court after pleading guilty to assault occasioning actual bodily harm.
The incident happened outside Mayson’s home in Lambeth on December 14 after she confronted Ibe over money she said he owed her.
The court heard that the argument became heated before Ibe grabbed Mayson by the hair and pulled out one of her braids.
The attack left Mayson with a bald patch and had a major effect on her confidence, self-esteem and emotional wellbeing.
Mayson later told the court that the incident had affected her both physically and mentally, although she also said she had chosen forgiveness as part of her healing.
Ibe had initially denied the assault charge when he appeared in court in March but later changed his plea to guilty.
Representing himself during his sentencing, the former England Under-21 international admitted that he had made a serious mistake and said he was genuinely remorseful.
As part of the sentence, Ibe must complete 80 hours of unpaid work and take part in 27 days of rehabilitation activities.
He was also ordered to pay £764, including £650 in court costs and a £114 surcharge.
Ibe began his professional career at Wycombe Wanderers before joining Liverpool. He later played for Derby County, Birmingham City and Bournemouth, where he made 92 appearances.