Former Southampton star Claus Lundekvam faces charge for drink-driving

He is also accused of driving away from the scene of an accident while over the drink-drive limit.

Lundekvam, 36, will appear before magistrates to face the charges in connection with an accident, which is alleged to have happened on the M3 near Winchester.

It is alleged to have involved his Audi Q7 and a Citroen van at junction nine of the northbound carriageway of the motorway.

The Norwegian-born player was later arrested and spent the night in custody being questioned by police.

following day with failing to stop after an accident and providing a positive breath test.

Lundekvam, of Chilworth, near Southampton, was bailed by officers to appear before Basingstoke magistrates on May 28.

If convicted, the maximum penalty he could face is six months in prison.

Lundekvam was forced to retire from football in March last year because of a longstanding ankle injury.

His 12 years as a Saint were marked by a testimonial against Celtic at St Mary’s last summer.

He personally spent more than £100,000 having the pitch at St Mary’s relaid so it would be ready to play the Scottish champions.

He made 420 appearances for Saints, including more than 340 in the Premier League, more than any other Norwegian at that level.

He was signed from Norwegian side Brann Bergen in 1996 for £350,000.

During his career at Southampton, Lundekvam, a dad of two, scored just two goals but was the team captain for a number of years. He was also capped 40 times for his country.

Most recently he appeared at a testimonial match for former Saints and Eastleigh star David Hughes.

The accident was reported to police at around 8.45pm on May 6.