Attempted rape and assault charges against <a href="https://www.thenationalnews.com/tags/manchester-united/" target="_blank">Manchester United</a> striker Mason Greenwood have been dropped. The UK's Crown Prosecution Service said the withdrawal of key witnesses and new material coming to light were factors in its decision to stop the case against the 21-year-old. Greater Manchester Police said it was “only fair” that they announce that Greenwood would no longer face criminal proceedings. The Manchester United striker originally faced one count of attempted rape, one count of controlling and coercive behaviour and one count of assault occasioning actual bodily harm, all against the same complainant. "I am relieved that this matter is now over and I would like to thank my family, loved ones and friends for their support," he said. "There will be no further comment at this time." Chief Supt Michaela Kerr, GMP’s head of Public Protection, said the decision had “not been taken lightly”. “I would, however, like to use this opportunity to reiterate GMP’s commitment to investigating allegations of violence against women and girls, and supporting those affected, regardless of their circumstances, throughout what can be a hard and upsetting time for them," Ms Kerr said. The decision has been made to discontinue prosecution in accordance with the Code for Crown Prosecutors, the Crown Prosecution Service said. “We have a duty to keep cases under continuous review," a representative said. We have explained our decision to all parties. "We would always encourage any potential victims to come forward and report to police and we will prosecute wherever our legal test is met." <a href="https://www.thenationalnews.com/world/uk-news/2022/01/30/police-make-arrest-after-man-uniteds-mason-greenwood-accused-of-violence-towards-woman/" target="_blank">Greenwood</a>, who has been capped once for England, was first held in January over allegations relating to a young woman, after images and videos were posted online. Within hours of the allegations surfacing, he was suspended from playing or training with the Old Trafford club. "The club will now conduct its own process before determining next steps. We will not make any further comment until that process is complete," Manchester United said. Nike suspended and later terminated its sponsorship deal with Greenwood, while Electronic Arts confirmed his removal from active squads on its Fifa 22 game.