Former Northampton Saints rugby player Ben Cohen has insisted that there was no "third party" involved when he and his wife Abigail decided to split up.

The couple, who have been married for 11 years, announced their decision to take some time apart from their marriage last week.

Rumours spread claiming that Strictly Come Dancing professional Kristina Rihanoff was involved in the break-up after Cohen was photographed supporting his former dance partner at her charity event just days before the split was announced.

However a statement from the former couple's representative said: "Ben and Abby Cohen have agreed to take time apart to deal with some marital issues but remain fully committed to the welfare of their children.

"There is no third party involved, and Ben and Abby now ask that their privacy and that of their family be respected at this difficult time."

The pair have two daughters, Harriette and Isabelle.