In a decision that has sparked outrage and disbelief, professional footballer Charlie Goode has been named in Northampton Town's squad for the upcoming season, despite currently serving a prison sentence for causing the death of a cyclist.
The 28-year-old defender was at the wheel of his powerful £200,000 Mercedes G-Wagon when he struck 77-year-old pensioner Peter McCombie in October last year. The incident occurred in the village of Pattishall, Northamptonshire, as Mr. McCombie was on a routine bicycle ride.
Goode was sentenced to 18 months in custody at Northampton Crown Court after admitting to causing death by careless driving. The court heard how the footballer, formerly of Brentford and Sheffield United, was travelling at least 10mph over the 30mph speed limit and failed to see the cyclist in time.
A Club's Controversial Decision
Despite his incarceration and the serious nature of his crime, Goode's name appeared on the official EFL squad list submitted by Northampton Town for the 2024/25 season. The club has listed him with the squad number 24, a move that has been widely criticised by fans and road safety advocates alike.
A club spokesman offered a terse explanation, stating, "The list was submitted prior to the conclusion of the judicial process." This has done little to quell the public reaction, with many questioning the club's judgement and moral compass.
The Tragic Incident
The details of the case are harrowing. Peter McCombie, a respected local man, was thrown from his bicycle upon impact and suffered catastrophic injuries. He was pronounced dead at the scene. In a victim impact statement, his heartbroken family described him as a "fit and active man who had so much more life to live."
Judge David Herbert KC, presiding over the case, noted that Goode's driving had "fallen below the standard of a careful and competent driver" and that his speed was a significant contributing factor in the tragedy.
The case serves as a grim reminder of the responsibilities all drivers hold and the devastating consequences that can result from a moment of carelessness on the road.
