November 28 – The English Football Association has confirmed it is investigating allegations of sexual abuse in youth football after more ex-professionals came forward with stories of their suffering.
Four police forces are now involved while the FA has instructed an independent leading counsel Kate Gallafent QC, an expert in child protection, to assist with its review.
Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA) chief executive Gordon Taylor says more than 20 former footballers have come now forward regarding allegations of sexual abuse.
Taylor said at least “six or seven clubs” including Crewe, Manchester City, Blackpool, Leeds, Stoke and Newcastle were connected with “particular individuals”.
“I am expecting there will be more,” he told the BBC. “I am mindful it could be throughout the country where children are there; church, schools and other areas we are well acquainted with over the past few years.”
Taylor confirmed none of those who had come forward were currently playing in the top four leagues in England. He said the alleged abuse took place on children between the ages of six and 16 when players were “vulnerable young people”.
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