SUNDERLAND football star Jack Diamond has been charged with rape and sexual assault.
The winger, 23, has been suspended following an alleged sexual assault in Washington, Tyne and Wear, last year.
Northumbria Police launched an investigation and arrested him over one count of rape and one count of sexual assault.
Diamond was on loan to League One Lincoln City but his contract has now been terminated "with immediate effect".
His home club said he has been suspended pending the outcome of legal proceedings.
A Northumbria Police spokesperson said: "In May last year, we received a report that a woman had been sexually assaulted inside an address in the Washington area.
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"An investigation was immediately launched and a man was subsequently arrested.
"Jack Diamond, 23, of Fatfield, Washington, has now been charged with one count of rape and one count of sexual assault and is due to appear at South Tyneside Magistrates' Court in May."
A Sunderland spokesperson said: "Sunderland AFC has been notified that criminal charges have been brought against Jack Diamond by the Crown Prosecution Service.
"The player has been suspended with immediate effect, pending the outcome of the judicial process, and his loan agreement at Lincoln City Football Club has also been terminated.
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"As this matter is subject to a legal process, the club will not be making any further statement at this time."
Lincoln City declined to comment when approached by The Sun Online.
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