Jennings arrested in betting probe

Motherwell midfielder Steve Jennings has been arrested at his home by Merseyside Police, Scottish Football Association chief executive Stewart Regan has said.

In a statement, Regan attributes the information to the Gambling Commission and says it follows "extensive enquiries" into alleged betting irregularities at a Scottish Premier League match between Motherwell and Hearts on December 14, 2010.

Regan added: "While the investigation involves several other individuals outwith Scotland, it is important to stress that the evidence gathered throughout this thorough period of investigation has involved only one Scottish match."

He added: "Motherwell FC are aware of the situation and will issue a response in due course. The Scottish FA will make no further comment at this stage."

Merseyside Police said: "Detectives have today executed warrants at 10 addresses across Merseyside and Glasgow and arrested nine men as part of an investigation into suspicious betting activity.

"The arrests are the culmination of a joint operation with the Gambling Commission and the nine who have been arrested for conspiracy to defraud are being interviewed by detectives.

"Those arrested are a 29-year-old from Bootle, a 48-year-old from West Derby, a 54-year-old from Norris Green, a 26-year-old from Croxteth, a 22-year-old from Kirkdale, a 31-year-old from Litherland, a 68-year-old from Fazakerley, a 36-year-old from Kirkby and a 26-year-old from Glasgow.

"The investigation relates to a match between Motherwell and Hearts on December 14 2010."