Oldham´s Croft denies racism allegation

Oldham winger Lee Croft has denied allegations he racially abused a ball boy at Bramall Lane on Saturday.

Croft, 27, who has previously played for Manchester City and Norwich City, claims he has done nothing wrong and is adamant he is innocent.

South Yorkshire Police are investigating the incident, which occurred during the clash between Oldham and Sheffield United in League One.

“He (the ball boy) was wasting time, I ran over to get the ball and he kicked it away,” Croft was quoted as saying in the Daily Mirror.

“I have had a go at him and that didn’t go down too well with the fans.

“Their fans told me to apologise so at the end of the match I ran over to him but he pushed my hand away, he didn’t want to know.

“I have done nothing wrong and there was no foul or abusive language. It is all finished.”

In a statement Oldham Athletic said: “The player has categorically denied the allegation. The club and his team-mates are fully supportive of him.

“The club will not be making further statements in relation to this matter.”

The winger’s confrontation came about as Oldham pressed for a late equaliser. As the ball went out of play Croft went to retrieve the ball before the unnamed 14-year-old ball boy kicked the ball past him.