Sunderland defender Titus Bramble faces no further action following an allegation of rape made against him last month.
The 29-year-old centre-back was arrested along with brother Tesfaye, also a footballer, after the alleged rape of a young woman at a Newcastle hotel.
But a spokesman for Northumbria Police has now confirmed: “A 29-year-old man has been released and no further action will be taken. A 30-year-old man remains on police bail.”
The news was welcomed by Sunderland chairman Niall Quinn, who had offered his public support to Bramble following the allegation.
Quinn said: “Naturally the last few weeks have been difficult for Titus and I hope that those who condemned him without being in possession of the facts will now offer their apologies.
“From day one Titus categorically refuted the allegations made against him and the club backed him 100%.
“I’m delighted that this has now been resolved and Titus cam continue his growing career at Sunderland Football Club.”