Croft cleared of abuse

LEE Croft has been cleared of racially abusing a ball boy at Sheffield United.

Athletic's winger was reported to police during the club's 1-1 draw at Bramall Lane earlier this month, with the allegation that he directed racial abuse at a black ball boy who kicked the ball away from him as the visitors chased an equaliser.

South Yorkshire Police completed an investigation and found no evidence in support of the claims.

"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," a statement from Athletic read.

Croft said: "It has been hard, obviously. But I have just tried to come in and get on with my football.

"The lads have been brilliant and the gaffer (Paul Dickov) and club have been good with me too."