MANCHESTER United has released a statement after Mason Greenwood has been charged with attempted rape, controlling and coercive behaviour and assault.

The Wibsey-born forward, 21, is due to appear in court tomorrow facing three counts relating to the same woman.

The player was first held in January over allegations relating to a young woman after images and videos were posted online.

He had been on bail since then, but was arrested in the Trafford area on Saturday for an alleged breach of conditions.

Shortly after 4pm on Saturday, the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) said it had authorised Greater Manchester Police to charge Greenwood.

The statement on the club’s website, released last night, reads: “Manchester United notes that criminal charges have been brought against Mason Greenwood by the Crown Prosecution Service.

“He remains suspended by the club, pending the outcome of the judicial process.”

Janet Potter, deputy chief crown prosecutor for CPS North West, said: "The Crown Prosecution Service has today authorised Greater Manchester Police to charge Mason Greenwood, 21, with attempted rape, engaging in controlling and coercive behaviour, and assault occasioning actual bodily harm.

"All three counts relate to the same complainant.

"Specialist rape prosecutors from CPS North West's complex casework unit authorised the charges following a review of a file of evidence received from Greater Manchester Police."

Greenwood, of Bowdon, will appear at Manchester and Salford Magistrates' Court tomorrow, police said.