A FOOTBALL academy staff member has been arrested on suspicion of "meeting a boy under the age of 16 following sexual grooming".
Sunderland AFC suspended Peter Howey, 60, and reported him to police after the allegation was made.
The part-time driver works alongside youngsters and provides medical support pitch-side.
He is understood to have been arrested and released in recent days.
A spokesperson for the League One club said: "We were made aware of allegations pertaining to a member of staff.
ARREST: Sunderland AFC's Academy of Light, on Sunderland Road, Cleadon Picture: GOOGLE
"We reported the matter to Northumbria Police immediately and the individual in question was suspended.
“Until such time as the police investigation has concluded, the club is unable to make further comment."
A Northumbria Police spokesperson said: "Police have arrested a 60-year-old man on suspicion of meeting a male under the age of 16 following sexual grooming.
"He has since been released under investigation."
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article