Manchester United fan Rachel Riley has slammed the club for the way they handled their internal investigation conclusion for Mason Greenwood.
Greenwood’s exit from Old Trafford was confirmed on Monday after the club concluded their six-month internal investigation into the 21-year-old.
This came after charges against the player, including attempted rape and assault were dropped in February, leaving United to make the decision whether or not to reintegrate the England international to the club.
United published their conclusion that Greenwood wouldn’t play for the club again, along with a statement that claimed Greenwood “did not commit the offences in respect of which he was originally charged", adding: "Based on the evidence available to us, we have concluded that the material posted online did not provide a full picture."
READ MORE: Man Utd 'set deadline' to offload Mason Greenwood before 'contract is terminated'
And in light of the club’s handling and response to the striker’s position, Riley slammed the club of ‘gaslighting’ and ‘green lighting’ abuse.
Riley wrote: "This overreaching statement will put wind in the sails of abusers and send a message to victims it's more trouble than it's worth to report alleged abuse. It's so disappointing to see my club contribute to the culture that upholds this."
“The question before them [United] was not whether Mason Greenwood may be found guilty in a criminal, or even civil court, it was whether he's fit to wear the United badge, to be a role model to kids who look up to footballers as heroes, and have his name proudly displayed on shirts sold in the club shop.”
Riley previously said that she would stop supporting United if Greenwood remained at the club.
She told The News Agents podcast: “"I think it's gaslighting for people to have two statements saying, Mason Greenwood himself saying he's been cleared of all charges – which is not the case, the claims were dropped because the key witness dropped out – and they [United] claim new evidence.
"I've never been more ashamed of the club. I think it's just a disgrace. And they had another opportunity to make it right, make a good statement and they have just greenlighted the abuse that's been going on on social media."
She also wrote on Twitter on Tuesday in the aftermath of the Greenwood decision: “I've been a red since before I was born, I've passed it on to my baby girls and some of the all-time best times of my life have been working with and cheering on Man United, so I write with such a heavy heart – as a club we've handled this appallingly."
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