Robinho held over ‘sex assault’

MANCHESTER CITY forward Robinho was arrested over allegations of a sexual assault in a nightclub, it was reported yesterday.

The Brazil international’s spokesman confirmed the player met police on Tuesday as part of a “criminal investigation”.

West Yorkshire Police said a man was arrested and questioned in connection with a serious sexual assault in a Leeds nightclub on January 14.

A spokesman for the force refused to confirm the identity of the man but said he was released on bail.

Robinho’s spokesman Chris Nathaniel said the player denied any wrongdoing and was happy to cooperate with police.

Nathaniel said: “We can confirm that Robinho met the police on Tuesday, as pre-arranged and as part of a criminal investigation.

“He strenuously denies any allegation of wrongdoing or criminality and is happy to cooperate with the police if required further.”

Earlier this month Robinho — who joined City from Real Madrid in September for a British record £32.5million — left the team’s training camp in Tenerife for Brazil, citing an “important family matter”.

He returned to Manchester on Sunday for training the following day, according to his website.

Manchester City were unavailable for comment.