FA to launch 'exhaustive' Panorama investigation

Football Association chief executive Brian Barwick today announced a formal investigation into the allegations made by BBC’s Panorama programme.

Every agent, manager and club named by the programme for alleged wrongdoing will be investigated.

One probe relating to players’ agents and connected activities will be carried out by the FA alone, and another investigation by the FA and Premier League jointly.

Barwick said: “These are serious allegations which have been made by Panorama and we are determined to investigate them fully. It is vital for the integrity of the game and for every football supporter that we do this.

“We will work in close co-operation with the Premier League. As with any investigation, we will ensure that our inquiries are exhaustive and thorough. If we find evidence of corruption we will act on it. We recognise our responsibility.”