Man City star Kyle Walker 'struggling' after split from wife Annie Kilner having been 'ribbed endlessly' by team-mates for rumoured relationship with Lauryn Goodman

The Manchester City defender has split from his wife Annie Kilner, who announced the news in a post on social media. She stated that she would be "spending some time away from Kyle" amid allegations of infidelity. Walker, who has relocated from his £2.4 million marital home, has since apologised to his wife and expressed regret for the "upset" caused.

Yet Walker is reportedly "struggling" after the split and has been the target of jokes and teasing regarding rumours of his relationship with Goodman by his teammates, according to the Daily Mail.

The Man City defender posted a heartfelt message on his Instagram: "Annie is an amazing woman and I can only apologise for the upset I've caused her. She's been part of my life for so long and that will never change for the sake of our children. I would ask for privacy for all of our family, and especially our young children, whilst we work through these difficult times."

Walker's off-field issues do not appear to have affected his career. He won the treble with Manchester City last season and was designated captain by manager Pep Guardiola after the departure of previous skipper Ilkay Gundogan. Walker also won the FIFA World Club Cup last month after captaining the squad to a 4-0 victory over Brazilian side Fluminense in Saudi Arabia.

The England defender will be in action later today when the Citizens take on Eddie Howe's Newcastle United as they look to chase down league leaders Liverpool.