Football: Marseille accused
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.MARSEILLE, who face Milan in the European Cup final in Munich on Wednesday, have had their preparations disrupted by allegations that they have attempted to bribe one of their rival clubs in the French league.
Marseille beat Valenciennes 1-0 on Thursday to gain a six-point lead (before last night's games) at the top of the table, as they seek their fifth successive title. However, their opponents claimed a senior Marseille official tried to bribe at least one of their players.
Jacques Glassmann, a Valenciennes defender, said he was called at the team hotel on Thursday morning. He said he recognised the voice of a former team-mate, now playing at Marseille, who handed the phone to a person claiming to be a Marseille official. 'This person offered me money to ease off, not to play too hard,' Glassmann said.
Boro Primorac, the Valenciennes coach, said he had 'no doubts' about Glassmann's allegations, describing the player as a sensible character - but added that 'voices can easily be imitated.'
Marseille have threatened legal action for damages if the accusations are not withdrawn.
Rudi Voller, Marseille's veteran striker, has been linked with a summer move to the Japanese club, Verdy Kawasaki.
Belgium, the Group Four leaders, beat the Faroe Islands 3-0 in Brussels last night to move to within one point of a place in their fourth consecutive World Cup finals.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments