A DUDLEY man has been remanded in custody charged with the murder of popular footballer Ryan Passey who died after being stabbed at Chicago's nightspot in Stourbridge.

Kobe Murray, of The Broadway, appeared at Birmingham Crown Court via video link this morning (Thursday). 

The 19-year-old is accused of fatally stabbing 24-year-old Ryan from Stockwell Avenue, Quarry Bank, in the chest in the early hours of Sunday August 6.

Wearing a maroon sweater and speaking over the link from HMYOI Brinsford, he spoke only to confirm his name and that he understood the proceedings.

He did not enter a plea and Judge Philip Parker QC remanded him in custody until September 5 when he is next due before the court.

A provisional two-week trial was also set down for January 24 next year.

The devastated family of much-loved Wren's Nest FC footballer Ryan watched the proceedings from the public gallery.

They told the News yesterday that Ryan's sudden and shocking death had left them broken-hearted.

Meanwhile, Chicago's in Stourbridge's Ryemarket shopping centre has had its licence temporarily suspended - pending a full hearing later this month.

Councillor Karen Shakespeare, Dudley Council cabinet member, said: "Following the incident, the police requested the council carry out an interim review of the licence.

"The committee met on Wednesday and the licence has been suspended pending a formal review on August 24."