Stoke City striker Saido Berahino will face trial for drink-driving in London's West End after claiming he was fleeing a gang of armed robbers, reports BBC News.

The 25 year old from Old Penkridge Road, Staffordshire, appeared in court, after being arrested in Bedford Square on 18 February.

The striker was granted unconditional bail until his trial on 15 May.

He had been threatened by armed robbers just before his arrest at about 03:00 GMT, Jake Taylor, for Berahino, said.

Berahino was arrested in Bedford Square after reports of a "disturbance" in nearby Great Russell Street.

The Burundi-born striker appeared at Highbury Corner Magistrates' Court charged with one count of drink-driving.