Stay up to date with notifications from The Independent

Notifications can be managed in browser preferences.

Footballer Lee Croft cleared over accusations of racially abusing ball boy

 

Dominic Farrell
Thursday 25 October 2012 11:47 BST

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

Oldham midfielder Lee Croft will not face police action after he was accused of racially abusing a ball boy.

The allegation was made following the Latics' 1-1 draw away to Sheffield United at Bramall Lane on October 13. Croft vehemently denied any wrongdoing and was backed by his manager Paul Dickov.

A statement released on Oldham's official website, http://www.oldhamathletic.co.uk, read: "South Yorkshire Police have found no evidence to support such allegations and they do not intend to take any further action in relation to this matter."

The statement continued: "It has been an extremely difficult time for Lee who has received the full support of the club and all his team-mates while these totally unfounded allegations have been investigated.

"The club would like to place on record its thanks to South Yorkshire Police for the thorough and expeditious manner in which it has completed its enquiry."

Speaking at the pre-match press conference for Latics npower League One trip to Crawley this weekend shortly before the news was announced, Croft thanked his team-mates and Dickov for their support over the past two weeks.

"It's been hard, obviously, but I've just tried to get on with it," he said.

"Coming in and getting on with my football, the lads have been brilliant.

"The gaffer has been good with me and the club as well, so it's been okay."

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in