Club of Premier League player arrested on suspicion of rape explains why they won’t suspend him

The club have said he will continue to train with the side

The Premier League footballer who was recently arrested on suspicion of rape will not be suspended, his club have confirmed. The player, who cannot be named for legal reasons, was arrested earlier this month and after speaking with police was re-arrested for two more alleged attacks on another woman. A spokesperson from the club told The Athletic it is aware of the allegations against the player, "which are currently the subject of a police investigation". The club said it had "confirmed that the player denies the allegations and is on police bail pending the outcome of their enquiries". The club's statement continued: "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.” The club's decision comes as Mason Greenwood remains suspended by Manchester United after his arrest on suspicion of rape, assault and threats to kill. Greenwood was arrested on January 30 before being further arrested two days later for sexual assault and threats to kill. He currently remains on bail following a hearing in June. Some clubs have been criticised for following a similar stance to the unnamed side. Manchester City were criticised after they allowed defender Benjamin Mendy to play in 2021 while he was under police investigation for allegedly raping a woman at his house, despite being arrested in November, 2020. Mendy was charged with a further count of rape in June, meaning the 27-year-old now stands accused of eight counts of rape, one count of sexual assault and one count of attempted rape, relating to seven women. Related links:

• Premier League club of arrested player knew of rape allegation last autumn
• Premier League club faces call to suspend international player over rape allegations
• Benjamin Mendy charged with further count of rape