Girl at centre of Adam Johnson underage sex claims caused 'distress' by online rumours

The 27-year-old footballer, who has also played for England and Manchester City, has been suspended by his club while inquiries into the claims continue.

Johnson was due to answer bail tomorrow but Durham Police have extended his bail by another five weeks.

The force said speculation on social networking sites was causing hurt to the alleged victim and her family and could lead to prosecutions.

They added that gossip on Twitter and Facebook about the alleged victim has been "very unhelpful" while their investigation is taking place.

A spokesman said: "Durham Constabulary is aware this investigation has resulted in considerable rumour and speculation, much of it on social media and in relation to the [alleged] victim.

"This has caused distress to the [alleged] victim and her family and is very unhelpful while we still have a number of actions to carry out as part of our inquiries.

"We stress again the warning we have already given, that anyone who publishes anything which may identify the victim of a sexual offence is committing a criminal act and will be dealt with accordingly."

Johnson was arrested at his £1.85million mansion in Castle Eden in County Durham earlier this month following an allegation of sexual activity with a girl under-16.

The arrest of the England midfielder on March 2 came weeks after his girlfriend Stacey Flounders gave birth to their daughter Ayla.

Durham Police added that no further action will be taken over an item recovered from the property at the time of Johnson's arrest.

It was initially reported to be a weapon but after a full examination the force said the item does not require a firearms certificate.

Johnson, born in Sunderland, has played for the England national team 12 times and has previously been a Middlesbrough and Manchester City player.

He was signed by Sunderland for £10million in 2012 and he has gone on to score 17 goals for the Black Cats.