Joey Barton: Rangers midfielder investigated over alleged bet on heavy Celtic defeat
The 34-year-old could face a ban and a fine if found guilty by the Scottish Football Association
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Your support makes all the difference.An investigation is underway into whether Joey Barton, the Rangers midfielder, has broken Scottish football regulations regarding gambling on football matches.
The 34-year-old is alleged to have placed money on rivals Celtic to lose heavily to Barcelona in the Champions League last Tuesday, according to the Press Association.
Brendan Rodgers' side suffered a 7-0 defeat at Nou Camp.
The Scottish Football Association enforces a blanket ban on players, coaches, club officials and referees from betting on football anywhere in the world.
If found guilty, Barton could face a possible ban and fine, but is unlikely to be punished severely if the alleged gambling relates to only one bet.
Barton's future at Ibrox is currently in doubt following a training ground argument with team-mate Andy Halliday.
The former Manchester City, Newcastle United and Queens Park Rangers midfielder was sent home from training after the incident and on Monday, Rangers suspended Barton for a period of three weeks.
Two former Rangers players have previously received bans for football betting.
Steve Simonsen missed one game after he was found guilty of betting on a total of 55 games in 2015.
Ian Black missed three matches and received a £7,500 fine for betting on 160 games, including several he played in.
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