Christophe Normand of the Montreal Alouettes faces 2 child luring charges

Montreal Alouettes player and former coach Christophe Normand has been suspended from playing because he faces two charges of luring children for the purpose of sexually exploiting a minor under the age of 16.

The 30-year-old full-back is accused of texting the minor with intent to commit a sexual offence, according to his indictment.

The offenses allegedly took place on or about August 9 in Bromont, Quebec.

Normand was arrested by provincial police at his home in nearby Eastman early Thursday morning. He then appeared in court via video link from Waterloo Police Station. He pleaded not guilty and was released on conditions.

In particular, Normand refrains from being in the presence of minors, except in the company of another responsible adult. He also cannot communicate with the complainant or use the Internet.

In a brief statement posted on Twitter Thursday night, the Alouettes said they were aware of the allegations concerning Normand. The team upheld his suspension the following day.

« To respect all parties involved, we will await the end of the investigation, » team president Mario Cecchini said on Friday.