Derby County cancel Christmas party in wake of previous drinking incident

Derby County have cancelled their Christmas party in the wake of the incident earlier in the season involving Richard Keogh, Tom Lawrence and Mason Bennett.

Former captain Keogh was sacked and left with career-threatening injuries after the three players crashed their car while driving under the influence following a team bonding session.

The incident also resulted in Lawrence and Bennett both being fined, losing their driving licences and ordered to complete 180 hours of community service.

The Athletic reports that this incident influenced a recent meeting between the players, club staff and manager Philip Cocu which ultimately led to the decision being taken to cancel the party.

The report indicates that the players will now join the club's staff for a Christmas lunch.