A Brighton and Hove Albion star has been charged with getting behind the wheel while banned for drink driving.

Right-back Gonzalo Jara Reyes missed the club’s 1-0 home defeat to Burnley at the American Express Community Stadium on Saturday because he had been arrested by Sussex Police that morning.

The 26-year-old, who was banned from driving for 17 months in July, is due to appear in court next month accused of driving while disqualified and driving without insurance.

Jara Reyes was arrested when police stopped an Audi Q7 sportscar in Richmond Terrace, Brighton, on Saturday morning. Police said he was taken into custody at about 11am.

The Chilean international gave his address as Sutton Coldfield and his occupation as "professional footballer".

He was charged and released on bail until a hearing at Brighton Magistrates' Court on January 20.

When asked about his absence in the aftermath of Saturday's defeat, Albion boss Gus Poyet said only that he was missing for "personal reasons".

He said he could not confirm if Jara Reyes would be available for the club's Christmas fixtures.

Brighton and Hove Albion made no comment on his arrest last night.

Jara Reyes moved to the UK in 2009, joining West Bromwich Albion for £1.4 million.

In October he came to the Seagulls on a 13-match loan, which ends when Albion host Southampton on January 2.

He was banned from driving in July after being caught drink driving in May.