CROYDON Athletic chairman David Le Cluse says he is standing by the club in the wake of claims that owner Mazhar Majeed was involved in an alleged cricket betting scam.

The newly promoted Ryman League Premier Division club were thrown into turmoil at the weekend after a national newspaper claimed Majeed had arranged spot-fixing during the Test match between England and Pakistan.

Le Cluse, who was handed the chairman's role by Majeed last November, said discussions were due to take place this week to work out whether the club could fulfil their fixture at home to Concord Rangers on Saturday.

He added: "The team are up for it. You couldn't ask for a more committed group of lads. Their win on Monday [against Carshalton Athletic] was incredible and I can't praise Tim [O'Shea, manager] and Neil [Smith, assistant manager] enough.

"As soon as we know we will inform the fans. Hopefully the allegations will prove to be untrue and we can carry on.

"We have a magnificent team and magnificent support and we are trying to resolve this as best we can."

In relation to the allegations made against Majeed, Croydon Athletic released a statement this afternoon that read: "Croydon Athletic FC have been shocked to hear of the recent allegations

in the press concerning the club's owner, Mazher Majeed.

"The club wishes to state that it has no knowledge of the matters referred to in the press reports. The club wishes [to] make it clear that it will fully cooperate with the police investigation, and any subsequent enquiry with the relevant cricket or football authorities.

"Everyone at the club remains committed to ensuring the continued success of the football club.

"In view of the ongoing police investigation, the club will be making no further comment in relation to the allegations against Mr Majeed."

See Friday's Croydon Advertiser for full coverage of all the stories emanating from Croydon Athletic this week.