Charlton directors have pulled out of tonight's meeting of the Bromley branch of the Supporters' Club on the advice of bankers Rothschild who are heavily involved in the club's proposed takeover by Dubai-based Zabeel Investments.

Derek Chappell, chairman of Charlton plc, vice-chairman Bob Whitehand and football club chairman Richard Murray, who brokered the deal, had accepted invitations to attend an eagerly awaited question and answer session.

Ian Wallis, who was set to chair the meeting, said: "We have been told that the issue is so sensitive that Rothschild strongly advised all three directors not to attend. We have been left with no option but to accept that decision.

"But the meeting will go-ahead as scheduled as it is the Bromley branch's annual meeting."

Meanwhile, a report today suggested that Zabeel were considering making a bid for Premier League West Ham.