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Probe launched into England's World Cup qualifying group?

A match in England's World Cup qualifying group is reportedly at the centre of an investigation due to irregular betting activity.

FIFA has reportedly launched an investigation following allegations of match fixing in England's World Cup 2018 qualifying group.

Lithuania's 2-0 win over Malta on October 13, which came less than a week after the Three Lions had defeated the minnows by the same scoreline, is said to be at the centre of the probe.

According to The Sun, an enquiry is underway with potential ramifications for England's route to Russia 2018 should the claims prove to be true, with previous results possibly being made void and replayed.

Malta goalkeeper Andrew Hogg told the publication that a FIFA official stormed into the dressing room prior to kickoff to warn of a potential fix following irregular betting activity in the days leading up to the match.

"It was strange and felt very uncomfortable - as if we were being accused of cheating," he said. "I knew I'd done absolutely nothing wrong and had no idea what they were talking about. But I was left thinking, 'If I f*** up now I might end up in the police station'.

"In the event, there was nothing I could do about the goals. I made three or four good saves which show I was doing my best. I have absolutely nothing to hide. But this could really mess up the group because no one knows what might happen next. It's a bulls**t situation."

Lithuania took the lead against Malta through an Arvydas Novikovas goal in the 75th minute and sealed the points thanks to a Fiodor Cernych strike.

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Daniel Lewis
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A general shot of a Premier League football ahead of the Premier League clash between Everton and West Ham United at Goodison Park on October 30, 2016
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