PFA urge players to report illegal approaches

By Barney Corkhill, EditorPublished: 09 December 2013 9:22 PM

PFA chief executive Simon Barker warns players that they need to report any illegal approaches to do with match-fixing if they are to avoid punishment.

PFA chief executive Simon Barker has urged players to report any illegal approaches regarding match-fixing to the FA.

English football has been rocked by a number of allegations of spot-fixing over the last few days, with Blackburn Rovers striker DJ Campbell among those arrested.

Five players, including Campbell, have been bailed following the investigation, but Barker has warned that footballers need to be aware of the laws in order to protect themselves.

"We would say to players 'if you hear of any information or you are approached then make sure you protect yourself by telling somebody at the club or the players' union or speak to the FA," Barker told BBC Five Live.

"The regulations actually state if you are approached you have to report it to the FA. This has become a major issue and its something that goes across all nations and across all sports."

Oldham Athletic winger Cristian Montano and brothers Sam Sodje, Akpo Sodje and Stephen Sodje were the other four players bailed.