Northern Ireland

Kyle Lafferty charged by FA with misconduct over betting

Northern Ireland soccer player Kyle Lafferty
Northern Ireland soccer player Kyle Lafferty Northern Ireland soccer player Kyle Lafferty

NORTHERN Ireland striker Kyle Lafferty has been charged with misconduct by the Football Association after allegedly breaching betting rules.

The Norwich City footballer is accused of breaking FA rule E8, which bars professional players from betting on football-related matters.

In a statement, the FA said that Lafferty (28) is alleged to have committed the offence on February 20. He has until August 5 to respond.

Its statement read: "It is alleged that on February 20 2016, the Norwich City forward placed a bet on the result, progress, conduct or any other aspect of, or occurrence in, a football match or competition in breach of FA rule E8."

Rule E8 prevents professional players from betting on matches they are involved or have an influence in, as well as any other football-related matter anywhere in the world – including matches, player transfers, employment of managers, team selection or disciplinary matters.

Neither Norwich nor Northern Ireland played on the date that Lafferty is accused of breaching the rules.

The former Burnley, Rangers and Palermo forward spent the end of last season on loan at Birmingham City, having joined them on March 24.

He also appeared three times for Northern Ireland at Euro 2016 as they reached the last 16.