Nile Ranger: Ex-Newcastle United footballer on rape charge

Nile Ranger left Newcastle United in March

Former Newcastle United striker Nile Ranger has been charged with rape.

The 22-year-old will appear in court on 21 August in connection with an alleged incident at a hotel in the Jesmond area of the city in January.

Mr Ranger, of Bailey Close, Haringey, London, left the club by mutual consent in March.

The player, a former England under-19 international, who has had spells on loan at Sheffield Wednesday and Barnsley, is currently on bail.

He made more than 50 appearances for Newcastle following his debut in August 2009, with the majority coming as a substitute.