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A former Premier League footballer is under investigation for alleged match fixing after he was caught on camera claiming he could throw matches.

EX-Nigeria international Sam Sodje also claimed he got himself sent off during a match between Oldham Athletic and Portsmouth this year after he punched a rival player in the groin twice.

Sodje, who was instantly red-carded while playing for Pompey in the League One clash, claimed in the secret recording he was fined £10,000 - but pocketed £70,000.

The former player also claimed he could “100 per cent” guarantee certain events could happen in games in return for hard cash.

Sodje began his career with Stevenage Borough before joining clubs such as Brentford, Reading and Charlton Athletic.

He is now a free agent after leaving Portsmouth this year.

The National Crime Agency confirmed to the Sunday Mirror they were looking into allegations that the ex-footballer also claimed he could throw Premier League matches.

A spokesman said: “We have received some information but because this is now a live investigation we cannot say anything more.”

Last month, the NCA announced it had started an investigation into what it described as "a suspected international illegal betting syndicate".

Gambling on the matches is thought to have taken place on Asian-based betting services and so far investigators do not believe British betting markets are involved.

Speaking about the latest reports, Football League chief executive Shaun Harvey said: "We treat any allegations of criminal activity in our competitions with the utmost seriousness.

"Given that there is an ongoing police investigation into this matter, we cannot comment further at this time. Although, we would encourage anyone with any evidence to report it to the police.

"We will be giving our full assistance to the police during their investigation."

In a statement, the Football Association said: "The FA is aware of the National Crime Agency investigation and is working closely with the NCA and other authorities. We will make no further comment at this time."

A Gambling Commission spokesman said: "The Gambling Commission has responded quickly in supporting this ongoing National Crime Agency investigation and continues to liaise with both the NCA and the Football Association."