Arsenal fans spotted ‘celebrating’ as FA investigate suspicious betting patterns
The FA have reportedly launched an investigation into suspicious betting patterns during Arsenal's 3-0 FA Cup win over Oxford United on Monday.
Mikel Arteta's side overcame an underwhelming first 45 minutes to cruise to victory against the League One side. But English football's governing body has now put the match under the spotlight by investigating supposed corruption during the third-round tie.
Oxford defender Ciaron Brown was shown a yellow card in the 59th minute for a foul on Bukayo Saka. And the Daily Mail claim the FA have a dossier of evidence to show the occurrence of a potential betting scam.
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The report states the FA have seen alleged phone messages from before kick-off at the Kassam Stadium which claim Brown would go on to be booked. One of the messages is said to show a betting slip with around £200 staked on the defender receiving a yellow at odds of 8-1.
While it remains unclear how many bets were placed on the incident, one bookmaker is said to have paid out £1,600. Eye-witness reports have also suggested that a number of Arsenal fans were seen celebrating, having seemingly won their bets before bragging about winning huge sums.
An Oxford statement to Press Association has since read: "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."
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