MIDDLESBROUGH star George Boateng told a court he was driving at 40mph over the speed limit because he was being chased by Arsenal fans and feared for his family's safety.

Boateng was fined for speeding after being caught doing 90mph in a 50mph zone behind the wheel of his Lincoln Aviator on the A66.

The footballer told Teesside magistrates he was trying to escape Arsenal fans following Boro's 2-1 victory over the Gunners last September.

He pleaded guilty to speeding but said they only gave up the chase when police pulled him over. Magistrates fined Boateng £500 with £75 costs and six penalty points will be put on his licence.

His lawyer, Paul Hinds, said: "He accepts that he put his foot down to get away. He apologises. It was a genuine concern for his family's welfare.

"He was absolutely delighted to see the blue light behind him because from his point of view it took the pressure off him."

Mr Hinds said one fan had followed Boateng home and sat outside his house.

Chairman of the magistrates' bench Ken Smith told him: "If this happens again, use the police or club security. There are a lot of young kids who look up to you."