London, Jan. 30 : Brazilian football star Robinho is `overwhelmed' by the support he has received following his arrest in a rape case.

He was also grateful for the Manchester City fans' reaction during his side's 2-1 home victory against Newcastle on Wednesday night, The Star reports.

The forward, who denies any wrongdoing, told a mate: "It was brilliant to hear the applause and know that so many people are behind me."

The Samba striker is said to have found strength from the backing he has received from teammates, his club's officials and fans worldwide.

Robinho, 25, feared becoming an outcast after being arrested and quizzed on Tuesday on suspicion of raping an 18-year-old girl in a Leeds nightclub.

Robinho has been bailed by West Yorkshire Police pending further inquiries.

The star, who joined Manchester City from Real Madrid for a whopping 32.5million pounds in September, has been generated worldwide support.

The 160,000-a week pound player has also told pals he is strong enough to shut out any terrace chants and jibes coming his way from rival fans during matches.

A City insider said: "Someone said he was worried that with all this hanging over him he might get the cold shoulder, but that's not the case.

"People have been going out of their way to make sure he's all right and not dwelling too much on what is going on in the background." (ANI)