English FA launch spot-fixing investigation after Arsenal vs Oxford match

The English FA has opened a spot-fixing investigation into suspicious betting patterns during Monday’s game between Oxford United and Arsenal in the FA Cup third round.

The investigation will be centered on an Oxford player who played in the match which ended 3-0 in favour of Arsenal. 

Daily Mail reported that the FA has a dossier of evidence regarding supposed corruption that includes phone messages before kick-off at the Kassam Stadium concerning a specific incident.

One message reportedly displayed a betting slip with around £200 staked on a specific bet at odds at 8-1. It is said that one bookmaker was forced to pay out around £1,600 following the clash.

Eyewitnesses at the Kassam Stadium reportedly saw many people celebrating in the stands, with several fans bragging about having won hundreds of pounds.

It is however unclear how many bets were actually placed ahead of the game but the FA is taking the matter very seriously.

Reacting to the development, Oxford United said in a statement;

“Oxford United can confirm that they have been made aware of a specific allegation of irregular betting around our Emirates FA Cup game against Arsenal on Monday evening. The club will co-operate fully with any investigation and while this is ongoing, we are unable to make any further comment.”

This is also not the first time that an FA Cup clash involving the Gunners has ended in controversy.