Goodwillie expected to face historic trial for rape

THE private criminal prosecution of ex-Scotland footballer David Goodwillie has taken a step forward after he pleaded for the long-running rape case against him to be heard in court.

- BY GEMMA RYDER

Almost 15 years after prosecutors dropped the case, a Criminal Bill for Letters seeking a private prosecution of the former striker was formally lodged late on Friday, the Sunday Post reported.

If it goes ahead, it will be the first private criminal prosecution in Scotland for 150 years.

It comes after former Dundee United and Clyde player Goodwillie called for a trial so he can "clear" his name.