A GROUP of supporters are rallying behind Croydon Athletic this weekend - and are urging other football fans to do the same.

The Croydon Athletic Supporters Club, known as Rams Army, want people to come to the club's home game against Concord Rangers on Saturday as they aim to put a week of turmoil behind them.

It began when a Sunday newspaper claimed that Croydon Athletic owner Mazhar Majeed was involved in an alleged cricket betting scam.

Majeed was arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to defraud bookmakers before being bailed last Sunday evening. He was then arrested again soon after his release as part of an investigation into claims of money laundering.

He has since been released on bail again but the situation has left a cloud of uncertainty hanging over Croydon Athletic, with supporters unsure what team will take the field in the Ryman League Premier Division against Concord on Saturday.

Rams Army chairman Paul Smith urged any football fans in the area to come to the KT Stadium in Mayfield Road, Thornton Heath on Saturday and help keep the club alive.

"All supporters and those associated with the club have been shocked and horrified by the stories that were contained in the media last weekend," he said.

"No one could have had any idea that such allegations could rock our club.

"Fellow supporters know the pain and anguish when their team has a sword hanging over its head and we believe that now is the time to show solidarity."

Concerns about the club's future run deeper than the first team as Croydon Athletic also have a successful academy in partnership with John Ruskin College, a juniors section for teams from U8 to U18 level and a new ladies team.

Smith added: "A football club is part of the local community and mustn't be allowed to die.

"There are no Premiership or Championship games this weekend and there is already a promotion arranged for reduced entry for those who hold season tickets for teams in these divisions.

"The Supporters Club would like a real show of solidarity from football supporters in general who know the pain that Rams supporters are suffering.

"Come along on Saturday, wear something maroon, and demonstrate your support for a football club that is so much more important than any one individual."

The game ties in with Non League Day, a nationwide initiative that aims to boost the attendances at non-league clubs on the international football weekend.

Admission at the KT Stadium for Saturday's match is £4 for adults (normal price £8 - children are free) to anyone presenting a season ticket from a Premiership or Championship club at the turnstiles.