Mason Greenwood’s Accuser Breaks Silence Over Rape.

 SPEAKING OUT Mason Greenwood’s accuser breaks silence over rape & GBH allegations & thanks supporters for messages of ‘encouragement’

MASON Greenwood’s alleged rape victim has broken her silence to thank everyone for their “support” after the Manchester United star was released on bail.

The student, 18, revealed that the past week has been “difficult” for her and she will not be making any more statements pending the police investigation.

Striker Greenwood, 20, was first arrested on suspicion of rape and GBH on Sunday.

He spent three nights being quizzed by police after he was re-arrested on suspicion of sexual assault and threats to kill.

His alleged victim last night posted on Instagram: “I’m grateful to everyone that has sent messages of support and encouragement – thank you.

“The last few days have been very difficult and I’m taking a break from social media while the police make their investigations.”

Greenwood has beefed up his security since being released on bail.

Greenwood was released on bail pending further investigation on Wednesday, but the star has not been seen since.

He appears to have toughened up security at his luxury mansion in Bowdon, Greater Manchester, after being released on bail.

Two security guards were seen standing watch outside the home and an expert was also pictured arriving to install a £350 home security system.

Greenwood was suspended indefinitely from Utd hours after the allegations surfaced on social media.

Manager Ralf Rangnick touched on his striker's arrest yesterday at a press conference ahead of today’s FA Cup clash with Middlesbrough.

He suggested players have been discussing the incident when asked if it had been "distracting".

The German added: "We had a good normal week of training with five training sessions including today's training, obviously it was a topic within the team but they're human beings and Mason was part of the group before we had our break.

"It was a good week of training, we could train under normal circumstances and we are looking forward to the game tomorrow."

Rangnick, who took the reins at the Premier League club last year, also hinted at Utd being forced to hold showdown squad talks after Greenwood's arrest.

Greenwood has been suspended indefinitley by Manchester.

Jesse Lingard had been rumoured to be leaving in the January transfer window after warming the bench for the majority of the season.

But Rangnick confirmed Greenwood's arrest was one of the factors in the midfielder staying at the club.

It comes as Greenwood's teammates returned to training after the winter break minus the No11.

Several of his teammates have also unfollowed the star on social media after the images came to light.

The striker has not been seen since his release on bail.

The £75,000-a-week footballer was taken into custody on Sunday after police swooped on his home.

Security staff, thought to have been provided by Utd, were present at a second home he owns nearby and they confirmed that his parents were inside.

In a statement, Man Utd said: "Manchester United reiterates its strong condemnation of violence of any kind.

"As previously communicated, Mason Greenwood will not train with, or play for, the club until further notice."

A source confirmed Greenwood will still receive his wages while on suspension.

But his sponsor Nike said they were "deeply concerned" and have suspended his deal.

Police were seen leaving his property in Bowdon on Sunday Credit: EAMONN AND JAMES CLARKE

'DISTURBING ALLEGATIONS'

All his merchandise has been dropped from the official Utd site in the wake of the allegations.

Fans wanting to exchange shirts bearing his name can now do so for free.

Greenwood was also removed from Manchester United’s squad on FIFA 22 following claims made against him.

The club’s official partner Cadbury said Greenwood won't appear on any of their marketing products.

Sponsor TeamViewer also announced that they are "closely monitoring developments".

Greenwood joined the team aged just six and rose through the ranks to land himself a regular spot on the first team.

In 2019, he became the youngest footballer to play for Utd in the Champions League when he took the pitch aged 17.

Greenwood has made 129 appearances in total for the Red Devils and netted 35 goals.

In 2020, England manager Gareth Southgate gave the 20-year-old his first cap when Greenwood came off the bench in a 1-0 win against Iceland.