Three Irish players arrested for alleged spot-fixing

Three former Irish underage internationals are among seven players arrested in England in connection with alleged spot-fixing.

Six players from Preston North End, including Irish internationals Keith Keane and Graham Cummins have been released on bail. Barnsley midfielder Stephen Dawson, who has also represented Ireland at underage level, was also arrested and bailed.

The other Preston players arrested include captain John Welsh.

Preston said in a statement: “We are disappointed that individual player names are in the public domain, given that none of these individuals have been charged with any offence.

“Having had time to meet with all the individuals concerned, we reiterate our position that all players will remain available for selection by the manager and that until or unless the current situation changes it will be business as usual.”

In a statement, Barnsley said they had no comment beyond being “aware of reports in the media in connection with an investigation into individuals suspected of conspiracy to commit acts of bribery and money-laundering relating to conduct during football matches”.

The National Crime Agency in Britain confirmed yesterday that seven players had been arrested, and a further six re-arrested, as part of an investigation into alleged bribery and money-laundering.