Birmingham executives released

TRADING in Birmingham City FC shares resumed yesterday as the two executives arrested over a corruption inquiry strongly denied any wrongdoing.

Trading was suspended yesterday morning after it emerged that managing director Karren Brady and co-owner David Sullivan were questioned by police investigating alleged corruption in football.

The probe is focusing on payments to a football agent and two players, the club said.

Brady, 39, and Sullivan, 59, were questioned and bailed by officers from City of London Police’s economic crime unit. Both have denied any wrongdoing.

Before trading resumed at 2pm yesterday, the club said in a statement: “The City of London Police investigation is focusing on payments to a football agent and two players dating back to 2002/2003.

“There is absolutely no allegation that any director of the company or the club itself has benefited financially from any of this activity.”

The statement said the investigation was “in relation to the payment, or possible non-payment of PAYE and National Insurance”.