Rape charge for Morris

Leeds midfielder Jody Morris is set to appear in court later today charged with rape.

Morris, who moved to Elland Road in the summer after being released by Chelsea, is accused of a serious sexual assault on a 20-year-old woman in Leeds in the early hours of October 7.

He will this morning appear at Leeds Magistrates Court with a 26-year-old man, also charged with rape.

Morris was initially arrested on October 7 by police investigating the alleged attack but was released on bail the following day.

However, yesterday the 24-year-old was re-arrested by West Yorkshire Police and after several hours of questioning he was formally charged.

Both Morris and the 26-year-old also accused of rape were held in custody overnight.

Another Leeds player Jermaine Pennant, on loan from Arsenal until next month, was also arrested yesterday in connection with the incident – alleged to have taken place on the A58 Wetherby Road in Leeds – but he was released on police bail pending further inquiries.

Although police refused to name the 20-year-old, Pennant was identified by a source at the club.

A police spokeswoman last night confirmed: “A 24-year-old man currently living in Leeds and a 26-year-old man from London have both been charged with rape.

“A 20-year-old man currently living in Leeds has been released on police bail pending further inquiries.

“The two men are due to appear at Leeds Magistrates Court.”