Bolton could ask for more information

12 April 2012

Bolton are considering whether to ask the BBC for further information on Tuesday night's Panorama programme.

Manager Sam Allardyce was accused by three different agents of being willing to accept illegal payments over the transfer of players, while son Craig was accused by the programme of accepting money for his part in two deals, even though the sums were never registered with the Football Association.

In addition, Bolton chairman and FA board member Phil Gartside was secretly filmed admitting he would be willing to sell Jay-Jay Okocha despite public statements to the contrary and in the knowledge the Nigerian had been the subject of an illegal approach.

Although Allardyce has strenuously denied any wrongdoing and has vowed to fight any allegations made against him, Bolton are aware of the potential damage to their reputation and have confirmed they are investigating the situation.

"We are reviewing the Panorama programme carefully and we may request further information from the BBC," said a club statement. "We will make further comment in due course."

Speaking after Bolton's win at Walsall on Tuesday night, Allardyce said: "I'm aware of the situation.

"Because I haven't seen anything of the programme I need to have a look at that and to take a view of that before I make any comment whatsoever.

"But if there are things saying wrong about Sam Allardyce believe you me, I will be fighting them."

The allegations could lead to changes in regulations for agents from UEFA.

"We have started, together with clubs and leagues, to change rules and regulations," said UEFA chief executive Lars-Christer Olsson on BBC Radio Five Live.

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