Bez Lubala trial: Blackpool forward cleared of rape allegations by jury in Brighton

The forward thanked his legal team after a jury took less than two hours to find him not guilty.

Speaking after the verdict, the player said: "I am delighted with the verdict and I would like to thank Jesus Christ my Lord and saviour.

"Thank you to my family and friends for standing by me through what has been an incredibly difficult period of my life.

"I would also like to thank the jury, and the judge Her Honour Shani Barnes for their time.

"Finally, I would like to thank Julia Smart QC, and my solicitor Iqbal Ahmed for their hard work and support.

"Now that a jury has found me to be innocent of all charges I wish to put this episode behind me and focus on my family, my future, and my career as a footballer."

There were excited gasps from his family and friend in the public gallery when the jury foreperson confirmed their not guilty verdict.

As the news hit home, some of his family could be heard sobbing quietly.

Her Honour Judge Shani Barnes said: "Thank you all for staying so calm, I know that was hard for you."

The judge told the jury: "This one took on a whole new level of pressure.

"People's lives were on hold.

"You are free to go back to your lives and Mr Lubala is free to go back to his."

Blackpool FC have been approached for comment

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