The former Norwich City and Nottingham Forest footballer, Justin Fashanu, died as a result of hanging, a post-mortem examination has concluded.

Further tests will be carried out before an inquest is held at a later date, a Scotland Yard spokesman added.

Justin Fashanu was found dead in a lock-up garage in east London on Saturday.

Fashanu's home in Maryland

He had been on the run from police in the United States after being charged with the sexual assault of a teenager at his home in Ellicott City, Maryland.

The student alleged he woke up in Fashanu's bed after a beer party to find Fashanu performing a sexual act on him.

The former professional striker, the first British soccer player to profess his homosexuality, denied the charge.

Huge talent

The 37-year-old former Barnado's boy - a former England B international - had moved to America earlier this year to coach the newly formed Maryland Mania soccer team.

In Britain, Fashanu made his name in the English First Division, now the Premiership, playing for Norwich City. He later became the first black player to sign for £1m, when he joined Nottingham Forest.

Fashanu, brother of Wimbledon player John, also had spells at Manchester City, West Ham, Leyton Orient, Newcastle and Torquay United.

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