POLICE have arrested Morell Maison as part of an investigation into fraud at Halesowen Football Club.

The police investigation in to the club’s financial dealings under the former owner and manager Mr Maison is another chapter in a disastrous season for the Yeltz.

This season the historic club has already been placed in administration, banned from the FA Cup and the FA Trophy for failing to pay football related debts including wages and gate receipts.

Detectives from Halesowen Police Station launched an investigation in September and Mr Maison was arrested on October 8.

A West Midlands Police spokesman said: “There is an investigation in relation to various allegations concerning matters in relation to Halesowen Football Club.”

The spokesman added: “We can confirm that a 48-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of fraud as part of an ongoing investigation by officers at Halesowen Police Station.

“He has been bailed pending further inquiries.”

Morell Maison began his stormy tenure at Halesowen Football Club in 2007 but after promising success problems with fans, players and footballing authorities soon emerged.

After a fracas with Dean Brennan at Chippenham last year Mr Maison was slapped with a 12 month touchline ban and then fans increased up the pressure by leading a boycott of home matches whilst he was still in charge.

Administrators were called in to the club last month and are currently weighing up two bids for the club, one from the Ingram brothers, who have links with Morell Maison, and from local businessman Robert McNaughton.