LONDON, July 21 (AFP): Footballers from poor countries are being �trafficked� around the world in order to facilitate match-fixing, FIFA�s head of security was reported as saying today.
Chris Eaton, who is responsible for overseeing world football�s attempts to tackle corruption, told The Independent he suspected criminals enticed players with contracts before ordering them to rig results. �It is a form of trafficking, in my view - trafficking for criminal purposes,� Eaton was quoted as saying. �There are examples of players who have been abandoned because they did not perform.
�It is only anecdotal evidence at this stage but it is clear. They (match-fixers) often target people from humble origins.
�They will go to junior competitions and recruit families of players basically through the attraction of cash. �I can get you a contract, or a game in Europe or in South America.� They will invest in the development of players and officials and then they expect payment � they want their cut.�
