Nile Ranger held on suspicion of breaching bail conditions Published duration 12 February 2014

image copyright PA image caption Nile Ranger was arrested outside a Newcastle nightclub

Footballer Nile Ranger has been arrested in Newcastle on suspicion of breaching bail conditions in relation to a forthcoming rape trial.

The former Newcastle United striker, who is now with League One club Swindon Town, was arrested outside a city centre nightclub early on Wednesday.

In August, magistrates ordered him to stay out of the Northumbria Police area after he was charged with rape.

Mr Ranger, 22, of Swindon, is due in court later this month.

He is due to appear at Newcastle Crown Court after denying rape in connection with an alleged incident at a hotel in the Jesmond area in the city in January 2013.

A spokesman for Northumbria Police said: "A 22-year-old male was arrested in the early hours of Wednesday morning on suspicion of breach of bail conditions and is currently in police custody helping police with inquiries."

Mr Ranger made more than 50 appearances for Newcastle following his debut in 2009 but the majority were as a substitute.

The former England under-19 international signed for the Wiltshire club in August last year.