A six-month internal investigation into Greenwood’s conduct led to his termination on Monday.

In February, charges against the player, including attempted rape and assault, were dropped.

Television presenter Riley wrote, “Right decision, horrendous statement.”.

A Manchester United statement explained the lengthy process behind their decision, claiming Greenwood “did not commit the offences for which he was originally charged”, adding: “Based on the evidence available to us, we concluded that the material posted online did not provide a full picture.”

In an open letter, chief executive Richard Arnold wrote: “While we were unable to access certain evidence for reasons we respect, the evidence we did collect led us to conclude Mason didn’t commit the crimes alleged”.

Although he accepted “mistakes” and “shared responsibility”, he said: “I didn’t do the things that were accused of.”.

Greenwood’s reintegration was “one of the outcomes we considered and planned for”, however “several outcomes were contemplated and planned for” and his position “evolved”.

Riley, however, claimed the club had engaged in “gaslighting” – a form of manipulation in which false information is given to lead a person to question the truth.

In addition, she accused the club of “green lighting” abuse on social media, saying, “This overreaching statement will encourage abusers and send a message to victims that reporting abuse is more trouble than it is worth.” It’s so disappointing to see my club contribute to a culture that promotes this.”

The question before them [United] was not whether Mason Greenwood could be found guilty in a criminal, or even civil court, but 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 wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter.

In the past, Riley had said she would stop supporting United if forward Greenwood stayed.

She also said on podcast The News Agents: “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 United claims new evidence.

“I have never been more ashamed of the club. It is just a disgrace. They had another opportunity to make it right, make a statement, but instead they have just facilitated the abuse on social media.”

“I’ve been a red since before I was born, and I’ve passed it on to my baby girls, and some of the best times of my life have been working with and cheering on Man United, so I write with such a heavy heart – we have handled this appallingly as a club.”