Footballer Lee Croft cleared over accusations of racially abusing ball boy

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."