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September 28, 2006updated 22 Nov 2022 9:09pm

Still no writs for Panorama as Allardyce threatens legal action

By Press Gazette

Despite threats of legal action, the BBC has said it is not aware of any impending legal action over the Panorama investigation into alleged corruption in football.

Bolton Wanderers manager Sam Allardyce was named in the alleged bung scandal, as well as his agent son Craig Allardyce. Newcastle United assistant manager Kevin Bond was sacked on Tuesday as a result of the documentary. He said he was suing the BBC.

A spokeswoman for Bolton told Press Gazette: "It is in the hands of his lawyers, and [Allardyce] has instructed his lawyers to act on his behalf."

The Bolton manager was accused of receiving illegal payments from two agents, while his son Craig was accused of receiving secret payments from agents during three transfer deals. Both men deny the claims.

Earlier this week, in a statement to journalists, Allardyce said: "I have had lengthy discussions with my lawyers and they have advised me that I have a very strong case in relation to the Panorama programme.

"I have therefore instructed them to prepare my case against the BBC, whom I am planning to sue over the false and highly damaging allegations which they broadcast."

On Monday, Panorama executives met officials from the Football Association and the Premier League to discuss how the programme could help the association with ongoing enquiries being conducted by Lord Stevens.

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Last week, the FA asked the BBC to provide all of the information it obtained during their investigation.

A spokesperson for the BBC said: "Senior BBC News executives met with officials from the FA and Premier League. The meeting (on Monday) was positive and constructive.

"The corporation emphasised that it is keen to help the relevant authorities with their investigations and a proper process has now been put in place."

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