A major investigation has been launched by the UEFA football authorities following indications of irregular betting patterns in 25 Cup matches, reports the Reuters news agency this week.

The report quotes UEFA Secretary General Davis Taylor, who told reporters: "'There is a danger within our game but we will not let irregular betting patterns or corruption affect the outcome of matches." Taylor was speaking at the conclusion of a two-day meeting of UEFA's executive committee in France.

"The unit should be fully operational from next season and will feature experts who will review suspected irregularities in matches from European competitions," UEFA legal affairs director Gianni Infantino said.