Chelsea probes child abuse as FA says football clubs may have paid hush money

CHELSEA is among several more clubs to launch investigations into allegations of historic child abuse.

Posted Wednesday, November 30, 2016 by Dailystar.co.uk

Chelsea probes child abuse as FA says football clubs may have paid hush money
PROBE: FA Chairman Greg Dyke and Chelsea FC ground Stamford Bridge

The Premier League leaders announced they were looking at one its employees from the 1970s – now dead – on Tuesday.

More than 20 former players have spoken out about alleged abuse – including former Newcastle United footballer Derek Bell and Stoke and Wimbledon defender Mark Williams.

There have been 250 reports made to police and eight forces are now probing allegations of historical child sex abuse in football.

FA Chairman Greg Dyke has vowed to pay all players due compensation.

And the footie chief warned any clubs that have covered up child abuse will be “held to account”.

Peterborough United and Cambridge United have both agreed to work with police after reports of historic child abuse by people with links to the clubs.

Darragh MacAnthony, owner of the Posh, said: “We will ensure our football club leads by example throughout this process with full transparency and honesty – top to bottom.”

A spokesman for the Us said: "Cambridge United will treat any and every allegation of this nature with the utmost seriousness.”

Chelsea probes child abuse as FA says football clubs may have paid hush money
INTERNATIONAL: Mark Williams also played for Northern Ireland

Chelsea has employed a lawyer to carry out an internal investigation.

A spokesman said the club would provide the FA with "any relevant information arising out of the club's investigation".

There is no suggestion Peterborough, Cambridge or Chelsea was previously aware or has covered up any allegations.

Chelsea probes child abuse as FA says football clubs may have paid hush money
MAGPIE: Derek Bell played for Newcastle United in the 1970s and 80s