Flying Eagles midfielder Daniel Daga has been acquitted of sexual assault by Norway's Frostating Court of Appeal, bringing an end to an 11-month absence from football for the 19-year-old Nigerian.

Molde FK welcome the ruling

Daga's club, Molde FK, confirmed the verdict in an official statement on Thursday, announcing that he is now eligible to return to action while all parties await a final judgement.

CEO Vegard Storvik addressed the outcome on the club's official website: "We have today received information about the Court of Appeal's ruling. This has been a demanding period for everyone involved, and we want to approach it with respect and consideration for everyone who has been affected."

A conviction overturned

The Romsdal District Court had previously found Daga guilty of sexually assaulting a woman, sentencing him to six months in prison and ordering him to pay NOK 10,000 in legal costs. The Frostating Court of Appeal overturned that conviction entirely, clearing the midfielder of all charges.

Molde FK acknowledged the weight of the matter in their statement: "The club recognizes that this has been a serious and stressful matter for everyone affected."

Return to selection

With the appeal verdict now in hand, Molde FK confirmed they are ready to reintegrate Daga into their squad. "Since the indictment was filed, Molde FK has made ongoing assessments based on the situation and the club's responsibility as an employer. Now that the Court of Appeal's verdict is in and Daniel Daga has been acquitted, we as an employer consider that Daniel will be available to play for Molde FK in the future," the club stated.

Daga, who represents Nigeria at youth level with the Flying Eagles, has been sidelined since the allegations emerged nearly a year ago. His clearance by the appeals court paves the way for a return to the pitch.