Barnsley Football Club Statement

Last updated : 26 March 2007 By Rob Miles (barnsley Boy)

Barnsley Football Club have today confirmed that Brian Howard, Marc Richards and captain Paul Reid have all been cleared of racist abuse and assault on a taxi driver.

It had been alleged that all 3 players had been involved in assaulting a taxi driver on a night out but a statement from Oakwell read:

BARNSLEY Football Club can confirm that Paul Reid, Brian Howard and Marc Richards have been cleared of any wrongdoing by South Yorkshire Police.

Reds manager Simon Davey told www.barnsleyfc.co.uk: "After an internal investigation, the Club found that all three players had done no wrong and this was confirmed this afternoon when the Police formally dropped the matter without action.

"South Yorkshire Police have confirmed that, following their enquiries, no charges will be brought against any player. All three have been released from Police bail without any further action.

"The players have had the complete backing of Barnsley Football Club throughout and remain focused on getting the points needed to keep the team in the Championship this season starting with Saturday's game against Derby County at Oakwell".

All 3 players will be in contention for Saturday's titanic tussle with league leaders Derby County.