FAI declares Longford match-fixing probe ‘absolute priority’

The FAI are treating the allegations of match-fixing which have seen a player suspended by Longford Town as a “very serious issue” pending the outcome of investigations by both the club and the association.

Airtricity League Director Fran Gavin, who is also the FAI’s Integrity Officer, said: “The integrity of competition is an absolute priority for us. We have seen how leagues in other countries have been badly affected and we need to be sure we nip it in the bud. It’s important we’re on top of it and that we leave no stone unturned in our investigations.”

Gavin added that while the FAI would like to complete their investigation into the Longford allegations “as quickly as we can”, the complexity of the case means it could be a matter of weeks before it reaches a conclusion.