BRUSSELS - The Belgian Football Association has criticized third-division KV Turnhout for adding 14 Egyptians to its roster in an attempt to avoid relegation.

Belgian secretary general Steven Martens said on Friday the mass hiring of players from Egyptian topflight club Wadi Degla creates "a totally distorted situation" in a division regarded as a breeding ground for local talent. Third-tier clubs have on average less than three non-EU players.

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Turnhout was linked to Wadi Degla, and since the Egyptian league was suspended, it was possible to bring the players over in such numbers.

Chairman Marcel Hendrix said on Turnhout's website that he realized "that fans are asking a lot of questions and that many don't share the choice." He added that the move was necessary for the club's survival.