TWO police officers involved in rape allegations against footballer Nile Ranger are facing an internal investigation, it has been revealed.

The officers who attended a Tyneside hotel last year were suspended for “neglect of duty” after the former Newcastle United striker was arrested on suspicion of serious sexual assault.

Northumbria Police confirmed today an internal investigation into the allegations had been delayed pending the outcome of Mr Ranger trial at Newcastle Crown Court.

Now that the 22-year-old has been cleared of the rape allegation, officers confirmed they will commence their investigation into the neglect claims.

A police spokesman did not release further details, but it has been reported the investigation centres around claims by a hotel night porter that he asked passing police officers to eject Ranger and the complainant on the night, but they refused.

Deputy Chief Constable, Steve Ashman, of Northumbria Police said: “We can confirm that two officers are currently suspended for neglect of duty.

“We took legal advice and were told that if any disciplinary hearing took place before the trial it could prejudice the rape trial.

“Therefore, we reluctantly postponed misconduct proceedings. However, now the trial is concluded the investigation can now progress.”

Mr Ranger, who now now plays for Swindon, denied the charge.

He said he had gone out drinking with the woman and had never engaged in sexual activity with her against her will.

Mr Ranger and the woman met in a city centre bar and visited various clubs before booking into the Carlton Hotel in Jesmond, Newcastle.