SOUTHEND United have confirmed they will stand by striker Nile Ranger – despite the player admitting online banking fraud.

The 25-year-old appeared at Wood Green Crown Court today and pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to defraud.

Ranger will be sentenced in April.

But a club spokesman said the former Newcastle United forward will be staying with the Shrimpers as the incident took place before he arrived at Roots Hall.

“This misdemeanour occurred two years ago and therefore a long time before Nile Ranger joined the club,” said the spokesman.

“We understand that Nile was in a very dark place at the time with many people, including the football industry, turning their back on Nile.

“The club will never condone such behaviour and had Nile been a Southend United player at the time then there would have been no hesitation in terminating the player’s contract.

“However Nile was not a Southend United player two years ago.

“Nile joined the Blues in July ’16, initially on a short term agreement, and has behaved very well since that time.

“He conducts himself professionally, is liked by the Squad and relates well to the club’s management.

“Since Nile joined the club last July we have worked closely with him to rehabilitate his old ways and will continue this work for the good of the player from which the club will hopefully also be rewarded.

“We can only speak as we find and Nile with our support has responded well.”