THE reaction from Accrington Stanley's manager and chairman and others to the allegations that players had bet on the team to lose.

Manager John Coleman This shouldn't be taken as a slight on the club. We should have won that game and anyone who saw it will know that all the players were trying.

Chairman Eric Whalley I have spoken to John Coleman about the players and at the moment they are still in the squad and remain innocent unless proved guilty. I imagine he would be loathed to drop them as we only have a small squad. We cannot afford to lose fans over this and I understand their anger. If the players are found guilty then they disgust me and the only option would be instant dismissal.

Hyndburn Council leader Peter Britcliffe I’m hoping that the allegations are proved groundless. If they lead to prosecutions I think we could have a situation where these men should never play football for Accrington Stanley again and should be banned for life. This is the last thing Accrington Stanley needs. It is working hard to create a niche in the community and it is one of the jewels in the crown of the area. If these charges are proven they will have badly let down the people of the area.

Lancashire Telegraph columnist Stephen Lowe We all reserve judgement to find out what happens in the end. I would be very surprised if our captain was involved. I was at that game and Bury’s goalkeeper kept them in the game and the fact we did not score was not for the want of trying. We have saved another season and want to go forward and have sold more season tickets for next year so I am very disappointed for this to happen.

Official Accrington Stanley club statement

Accrington Stanley are aware that two of our players have been charged by the Football Association in connection with betting on football matches. They have until later to this month to respond to the charges and we will await until the Football Association reach a final verdict before any action is taken by the club.