THE mother of a semi-professional footballer has spoken of her relief after her son was released without charge after being arrested on suspicion of murder.

Kidsgrove Athletic striker Liam Shotton was one of six men arrested over the death of alcoholic John Clarkson.

The 24-year-old, pictured, was questioned on Tuesday by detectives investigating Mr Clarkson's death.

Mr Shotton, of Clarence Street, Fenton, was released without charge on Wednesday, along with four other men aged 18, 21, 22, and 23.

Mr Clarkson, aged 45, died in hospital on Sunday a week after suffering serious head injuries in a street attack in Snowhill, Shelton, on March 6.

Mr Shotton yesterday declined to comment about his arrest.

But mum Lynne Shotton told The Sentinel she was "relieved" her son had been released without charge.

She said: "We want to put this whole thing behind us and forget about it.

"Liam was questioned at the police station about the incident, but no further action is going to be taken.

"We're very relieved."

Liam, whose brother Ryan plays for Stoke City, missed Kidsgrove's match against Loughborough Dynamo on Tuesday night because he was in custody.

But he is expected to be available for selection for tomorrow's clash at Rushall Olympic. Kidsgrove manager Peter Ward said: "Liam is a great lad. His behaviour at the club has been impeccable.

"I was shocked to hear he had been taken in for questioning, but he has been released without charge and that is the end of it.

"I can imagine the last few days have been difficult for him, but hopefully we can get him back on track at the club.

"We are 100 per cent behind Liam."

An 18-year-old man arrested in connection with Mr Clarkson's death has been conditionally bailed until next month pending further inquiries.

A post-mortem examination has revealed Mr Clarkson, who was known as Elvis because of his habit of singing Presley songs while drunk, died from injuries he suffered in the assault.

An inquest into his death is expected to be opened next week.