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Southampton launch investigation into claims surrounding Eric Black

Southampton assistant manager Eric Black faces an investigation into his behaviour following allegations he advised how to bribe officials from other teams, the Premier League club said on Friday.

Black is the latest individual to be named in the Daily Telegraph's investigation into alleged corruption within the English game.

The newspaper's investigations team this week published information obtained during a 10-month probe into alleged corruption in British football.

The Telegraph alleged Black had offered advice to an undercover reporter posing as a businesswoman on how to bribe officials at other clubs for information on players. He also denies the newspaper allegations.

Southampton said in a statement on Friday: "Having reviewed the limited facts provided in the Daily Telegraph this morning, the club wrote to the newspaper again, requesting a full transcript of the meeting Eric Black attended on 2nd September.

"This request has so far not been granted, and the facts that are presented only in the media are unclear and incomplete.

"The club continues to take any situation relating to our employees very seriously, and we will undertake a full internal review, working closely with the FA and the Premier League.

"We would like to place on record that Eric remains an employee of Southampton Football Club and, like any other employee here, will be afforded respect and support in this matter.

"The club values the support of our fans and in addition, like any employer, appreciates the hard work and dedication of our staff members.

"Southampton Football Club is totally committed to the strong values and culture that our fans and staff share, and will continue to provide full support to any initiative that improves the game we love and treasure."

Southampton chairman Ralph Krueger has been on a month's sabbatical while he coached Team Europe at the World Cup of Hockey in his native Canada.

Before the full club statement, Krueger said the allegations against Black were a ''personal issue for him'' and not directly linked to the club.