Watford ‘investigating 20-person gathering at star Andre Gray’s home’

Watford have launched an investigation into a 20-person gathering reportedly held at striker Andre Gray’s home on Friday night.

It is believed team-mate Domingos Quina was among those to have attended the party, which would have been in breach of coronavirus lockdown rules.

And the Premier League club, who are next in action against Southampton on Sunday, are said to be looking into the incident.

Watford are investigating a reported 20-person gathering held at striker Andre Gray’s house

According to The Athletic, the club triggered a probe after becoming aware of the reported gathering. 

Watford officials are described as being ‘disappointed’ by the flagrant breach, which was revealed to have taken place in a series of now-deleted videos on Gray’s Instagram story.

A group of friends were filmed playing football on an artificial pitch in the property’s garden, with Quina even seen taking part in one of the matches.  

Watford officials are said to be ‘disappointed’ by the actions of the two first-team players

Watford confirmed in a statement that they plan to investigate. It read: 

‘Watford Football Club is aware of social media posts which suggest two players contravened government lockdown protocols.

‘The club will fully investigate the matter and speak to the players concerned.

‘No further comment will be made.’ 

It is said team-mate Domingos Quina (pictured wishing Gray a happy birthday) was present

The regulations also state that households should only be in touch with one other.

The gathering would in addition go against the Premier League protocols introduced as part of Project Restart. Players are actively encouraged to remain within their own family groups and avoid unnecessary contact.    

The staff and players at Watford returned their latest batch of coronavirus tests earlier in the day on Friday – but the Athletic also believe that it remains unclear whether the players involved in the party will be retested or removed from the rest of the squad. 

According to the same report, the Premier League will allow Watford to proceed with any potential disciplinary action themselves.  

Gray shares the property in question with partner, and Little Mix singer, Leigh-Anne Pinnock

Former Burnley striker Gray shares the property in question with his partner, and Little Mix singer, Leigh-Anne Pinnock. 

He had turned 29 on Friday, and the alleged gathering raises serious concerns due to its breach of the measures in place to prevent the spread of the disease. 

Watford have endured a tough season and are languishing in 16th place in the top flight in their battle to avoid relegation. 

Nigel Pearson’s men suffered defeat against Burnley earlier this week.