At a meeting of The FA Board yesterday, the Board agreed that Chief Executive Brian Barwick should bring in additional personnel to enhance the Department's investigative resources.

Barwick said: "We have made it our priority to strengthen the Compliance Department so we can tackle the issue of corruption head on. We are committed to thoroughly investigating any wrongdoing in the game. The Department is doing an excellent job and by bringing in additional resources we will be able to build on that work."

The FA has, meanwhile, issued a reminder to all persons involved in football that they are expected to come forward with evidence of breaches of rules.

Barwick added: "There have been a large number of people in football making allegations of corruption through the media. We want to reiterate that any participants in the game with evidence of wrongdoing have a duty to bring this evidence to our attention.

"The FA has already contacted a substantial number of people and media organisations in the last year to ask them to provide evidence following media reports. A number have provided evidence which is the subject of ongoing inquiries or has resulted in action being taken. The majority have provided cooperation but were often unable to provide any firm evidence of wrongdoing. Regrettably, a number have chosen not to cooperate.

"We are now in the process of contacting all of those who have made claims in recent days including former players and managers. It is important that we sift the innuendo and rumour from the facts. Any evidence that is provided to us will be thoroughly investigated and, whenever appropriate, charges will be brought."