Newcastle United striker Nile Ranger has had a charge of criminal damage dropped after he claimed he was worried that his girlfriend Shakira Bicar was being kidnapped.

The 21-year-old was arrested for smashing the front door of his girlfriend's house in Enfield, North London in September, which caused £2,500 worth of damage.

Ranger's lawyer Rebecca Nieto told Enfield Magistrates' Court: "Mr Ranger was in a club when he was told by a friend there was a kidnap threat made to his girlfriend.

"He was worried and attended her address. All the lights were off, and after knocking a few times, he decided to kick the door through."

Meanwhile, Ranger is believed to have been given one last chance by the Magpies.