Nile Ranger (L) was at Newcastle for four years (Reuters)
Nile Ranger (L) was at Newcastle for four years (Reuters)

Former Newcastle United strike Nile Ranger has been arrested on suspicion of assault two weeks after leaving the club by mutual consent.

Ranger, 21, was arrested following reports of a fight between a couple in Newcastle city centre.

The London-born former England Under-19 player is currently being questioned in custody.

A Northumbria Police spokesman said: "At 7.09pm yesterday evening, police received a report of a fight in the car park area at The Gate, Newcastle.

"A 21-year-old has been arrested on suspicion of assault and he is currently in custody helping police with inquiries."

The troubled striker had his contract at Newcastle United cancelled following a series of arrests.

In January, Ranger was held by Northumbria Police following an allegation made by a woman that she was raped at a Newcastle hotel.

In October, he was given a 12-month conditional discharge for assaulting two police officers.

Ranger made 51 appearances for the Magpies and scored two goals.

A statement from the club on 1 March said: "Newcastle United can confirm that Nile Ranger has today left the club by mutual consent."

Ranger was capped 12 times at England under-19s level, scoring on his first international start against Bosnia on 27 May.

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