‘No substance’ to racism claim

NO OFFENCE, MATE: Lee Croft attempted to shake hands after the game with the Sheffield ball-boy.

LEE Croft did NOT racially abuse a ball-boy at Sheffield United.

A South Yorkshire Police investigation into the widely-reported alleged incident at Bramall Lane earlier this month concluded that there was “no substance” to allegations that racial abuse took place towards the end of the match.

Complaints had been lodged that Croft directed racial abuse at a black ball boy who kicked the ball away from him as Athletic chased an equaliser.

Croft (27) has accepted that he spoke inappropriately to the ball boy and has issued an apology.

A police statement read: “The investigation has revealed there to be no substance to suggestions of racial abuse.”

“His apology has been accepted by the ball-boy and with that, there is to be no further police action.”

Croft confessed that the unfounded allegations have had an effect on him.

“It has been hard, obviously,” he said. “The lads have been brilliant and the gaffer (Paul Dickov) and club have been good with me too.”

Athletic issued a release in support of Croft, who has played in both of the club’s games following the incident.

“It has been an extremely difficult time for Lee, who has received the full support of the club and all his team-mates,” said a staement.



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