Sunderland footballer Jack Diamond appears in court charged with rape and sexual assault

Sunderland footballer Jack Diamond has appeared in court on charges of rape and assault.

The 23-year-old was suspended by the club in March after being charged with rape and assault following two incidents in May last year.

The incidents are believed to have occurred on May 6 and 9, 2022, at an address in Washington, Tyne and Wear.

Diamond’s defense indicated he will plead not guilty to both charges, following his statement in March in which a spokesperson for the player said he “strongly denies” both charges.

Arriving at South Tyneside Magistrates’ Court on Friday, Diamond wore a dark suit for his appearance in court.

He spoke only to confirm his name and address before being granted unconditional bail by the court. His next trial is scheduled for June 2.

“Jack Diamond strongly denies the allegations made against him,” a spokesperson for the player said in March.

“Jack looks forward to clearing his name in court.”

Following the allegations, Sunderland announced his immediate suspension, while his loan at Lincoln City was terminated with immediate effect.

A Sunderland spokesman said: ‘Sunderland AFC have been informed that Jack Diamond has been charged with criminal charges by the prosecution.

Jack Diamond saw his loan with Lincoln City terminated after he was charged with rape and assault

The player is suspended with immediate effect pending the outcome of the legal proceedings and his loan with Lincoln City Football Club has also been terminated.

“As this matter is subject to legal proceedings, the club will not make any further announcements at this time.”

Diamond made 45 appearances for Sunderland, including coming on as a substitute as they won the Papa John’s Trophy at Wembley in 2021.

He had scored eight times from 36 appearances for League One Lincoln this season.