THE FA has ended its probe into claims that Liverpool hacked into Manchester City’s scouting network – because of a compensation deal between the clubs.
Wembley beaks opened an investigation in October following reports that Anfield bosses had made a £1million payment to the Etihad outfit.
The Manchester City Academy stadium, part of the Etihad complex – and a target for Liverpool, who hacked their scouting systemCredit: Getty Images – Getty
It was alleged that the spark was the current Liverpool sporting director Michael Edwards and two scouts moving from City in 2013.
Etihad chiefs accused Liverpool of using the credentials of one of their staff members to hack into the club’s Scout7 system on “hundreds” of occasions to discover City targets.
It is understood City employed forensic computer experts to hunt down the source of the hack and a deal between the clubs was struck seven years ago.
Liverpool faced potential sanctions after the Premier League passed the matter to the FA but Wembley chiefs cited the historic nature of the allegations and the financial settlement to justify pulling their probe.
A Wembley spokesperson said: “The FA has carefully considered the evidence it received in this matter, including information provided by both clubs involved, and has decided not to progress the investigation.
“This is due to a number of factors including the age of the alleged concerns and the settlement agreed by the two clubs involved.
“As per standard protocol, should The FA receive further information or evidence, the decision not to progress the investigation may be reviewed.”
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Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
