A footballer who pleaded guilty to assault after pulling a braid out of his ex-girlfriend's head during an argument has been fined and sentenced to community service.

The former England under-21 international, from Chislehurst, south-east London, changed his plea to guilty, having denied the charge of assault occasioning actual bodily harm in March.

Croydon Magistrates' Court heard Ibe pulled a braid from Mayson's head, leaving her with a bald patch. The footballer, who represented himself, told the court on Friday: "I made a serious mistake."

He added: "I understand it is wrong. I am genuinely remorseful.

"I've had to look at myself in the mirror. I cannot change what I did but will take responsibility for what I do next."

Magistrate Brij Kalia sentenced Ibe to a 12-month community order, 80 hours of unpaid work, and 27 days of rehabilitation activity.

He was also handed a £764 fine, including a £114 surcharge and £650 in court costs.

The court heard the couple were arguing on 14 December when Mayson confronted Ibe and demanded he repaid her money she said he owed her.

Prosecutors said Ibe had a bag containing drinks, snacks and flowers, but when Mayson threw muffins on the floor and called him a "druggy" he grabbed her by her hair.

Prosecutor Aya Alshekhili said the attack left Mayson's confidence, self-esteem and self-worth "on the floor".

She said that prior to the assault the pair had been on an "on and off" relationship since late 2024.

In a victim impact statement read to the court, Mayson said it had a "significant impact" on her "both physically and mentally".

She said despite remaining "feelings of fear", she felt "compassion" for Ibe, adding forgiveness had been part of her "healing journey".

The footballer joined Liverpool in 2012, making 58 appearances in all competitions, before spells at Derby County, Birmingham City and 92 appearances for AFC Bournemouth between 2016 and 2020.

The winger played two years of non-league football before moving to his current team, Lokomotiv Sofia, in the Bulgarian First League in November 2025.

The Metropolitan Police previously said he was arrested at Luton Airport on 30 January.

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