The Malta Football Players Association issued a statement following the decisions by UEFA Control & Disciplinary Body which banned Kevin Sammut and acquitted Stephen Wellman and Kenneth Scicluna over the alleged Norway vs Malta match-fixing case.

The association stressed that it is against any form of corruption and match-fixing by players, officials or third-parties which seek personal gain to the detriment of the game.

However the accused should have the right to defend himself in front of an independent and impartial tribunal. The MFPA says that in this case, there seem to be doubts over the procedures taken, therefore creating doubts over the legitimacy of the decision. These doubts should be clarified in the appeal but the procedures need to respect the principles of natural justice and the basic rights of players.

The association said it believes that any player or official found guilty or match-fixing should be sanctioned heavily, including being banned and stripped of any honours won on an individual and team basis.

The Malta Football Players Association stressed that it is ready to work together with local and international entities in the fight against match-fixing and appealed for sensitivity in such cases, without speculations over names of those who are possibly involved.