Arsenal get dedicated Met Police officer at London Colney due to safety concerns | OneFootball

In response to rising concerns, Arsenal have stationed a dedicated police officer at their training facility to secure player safety.

Arsenal are ramping up security measures at their London Colney training centre, following a series of safety concerns.

In a bid to thwart any potential criminal activity, the club has stationed a dedicated Metropolitan Police officer at their training facility, a sign of the escalating safety concerns surrounding footballers in the modern era.

London Colney, the home of Arsenal’s training ground since 1999, has seen an increase in safety measures recently. Funded from the £10 million received from Nicolas Anelka’s move to Real Madrid, the complex is a state-of-the-art facility. Nevertheless, the serene pitches and indoor amenities now play host to an unexpected guest: a police officer.

The need for such stringent security measures emerged from a series of worrying incidents. Notably, in 2021, former Arsenal players Sead Kolasinac and Mesut Ozil were the targets of an armed robbery attempt, a stark reminder of the potential dangers players face off the pitch.

Incidents of concern extend to the training ground as well. Recently, an officer intervened when two individuals were seen photographing players and their vehicles, raising concerns about the potential risk to the players’ safety at their homes.

Adding to these worries, it is feared that thieves could be masquerading as fans, infiltrating the crowds seeking autographs, and using the opportunity to steal valuable items from players.

Amidst these escalating concerns, the officer’s presence is supposed to offer reassurance. Identified by his Arsenal lanyard, the officer confirmed his full-time presence at the training ground, indicating the club’s proactive approach towards protecting its stars.

The Metropolitan Police have clarified that each London-based club has a Dedicated Football Officer. While they’re primarily located at a police building in central London, they make regular visits to clubs to tackle any policing issues and crime related to the club.

Respecting the confidentiality of the security measures, Arsenal have refrained from commenting on the specifics. However, the presence of a full-time officer at the training ground speaks volumes about the club’s commitment to player safety.

With player security under an intense spotlight, Arsenal’s latest move is bound to provoke wider discussions within football’s governing bodies. Will other clubs follow suit? What can be done so they don’t have to? Only time will tell.