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PICTURED: Richard Rufus

A FORMER Premier League footballer charged with fraud and possessing £5.3 million of criminal property has had his case adjourned to allow him to secure a legal team.

Ex-Charlton Athletic defender Richard Rufus appeared at Southwark Crown Court on Thursday (Sept 5) accused of fraud by false representation and possessing criminal property.

The 44-year-old, who was unrepresented, told judge David Tomlinson he had been experiencing "issues" with lawyers and requested an adjournment for four weeks.

Rufus, of Anerley Hill, Crystal Palace, south London, said: "I am proposing an adjournment for four weeks to secure a legal team."

He claimed some lawyers had told him they "do not do" legal aid so they could not represent him.

Rufus, who made 288 appearances for Charlton, retired from the club in 2004.

He is also charged with carrying on a regulated activity when not an authorised or exempt person.

All of the alleged offences are said to have taken place between May 1 2007 and April 30 2012.

Judge David Tomlinson granted him conditional bail and adjourned the case for a plea hearing on October 3.