Bail extended for Premier League footballer accused of rape

The player was arrested in Barnet earlier in the year and is accused of committing one offence against a woman in her 20s in April 2021, and another against a second woman in June 2022.

He was initially bailed until October, but this has since been extended to January.

The suspect had also been accused of a second count of rape against the first woman, in June 2021, but this was dropped on the grounds that a relevant change to the law had not come into effect at the time.

The player was arrested in Barnet (Image: PA)

On July 4, an allegation of rape of a woman in her 20s was reported to police.

“It was reported the alleged rape happened in June 2022. On July 4, a 29-year-old man was arrested at an address in Barnet on suspicion of rape and taken into custody.

“While in custody, he was further arrested on suspicion of two incidents of rape that were alleged to have been committed in April and June of 2021 against a different woman in her 20s.

“No further action will be taken in relation to the alleged offence in June 2021 because the relevant legislation had not yet come into effect at the time it is said to have occurred.

“This has been explained to the complainant who continues to be supported by officers.”

Police are investigating the rape allegations

The club, which has also not been named, said in a statement: “We are aware of the allegations which are currently the subject of a police investigation.

“We have confirmed that the player denies the allegations and is on police bail pending the outcome of their inquiries. There have been no charges laid and the player can fulfil his professional commitments including permitted travel.

“We take our commitments and responsibilities seriously and have followed our safeguarding policies and procedures.

“We will keep this matter under close consideration and will review further if circumstances change.”