Smith released by England

Smith joins England squad

Leeds United striker Alan Smith has left the England squad, following his arrest on Thursday.

His departure comes just hours after he was called up by England coach Sven-Goran Eriksson as a replacement for Darius Vassell, who suffered a knee injury playing for Aston Villa in a friendly in Dubai on Wednesday.

Smith left the squad in Manchester following Football Association discussions about his interview with police, which concerned allegations he threw a bottle into the crowd during a match.

The incident is alleged to have happened during a Carling Cup match against Manchester United at Elland Road on 28 October.

Football Association spokesman Adrian Bevington said: "Further to discussions this evening, Alan Smith has left the England squad and returned to Leeds.

"We will be issuing a full statement on Friday morning."

It was the first time Smith had been called up by England since his sending-off against Macedonia at Southampton's St Mary's ground 13 months ago.

Apology to fan

A police spokeswoman confirmed a 23-year-old man had been arrested and released on bail.

She said a file would now be sent to the Crown Prosecution Service, who will decide if Smith is to face any criminal charges.

A spokesman for Leeds United confirmed Smith had been arrested.

During the 3-2 defeat, which was screened live on television, Smith was seen to throw an object off the pitch.

He later apologised to a girl who was in the crowd.

In a statement he said: "I have spoken to the family of the young lady concerned to make sure she is all right and I have apologised.

"The family and I believe this is the end of the matter.

"I hope this will not damage the special relationship I have with the Leeds fans."