MANCHESTER CITY defender Martin Demichelis has been charged by the FA over alleged betting offences.
The 35-year-old is accused of committing 12 breaches relating to matches between January 22 and 28 this year.
New rules that came into force for the 2014-15 season mean players and coaches are prevented from betting on any worldwide footballing activity, with the FA having the power to fine or suspend any person found guilty of a rule breach.
The Sport Bible reports: “It’s not been the best few weeks for Martin Demichelis.
Just before the international break the Manchester City defender was embarrassed by teenager Marcus Rashford in the Manchester derby and now he’s been charged for misconduct relating to betting activity.”
While there is no suggestion that the charge relates to any of the 25 league and cup games in which Demichelis has featured for City this season, we think he deserves whatever punishment comes his way if he’s found guilty.
When will players learn?
The rules have been in place long enough and there have been several previous instances of players being found guilty of similar offences so it’s not something footballers are unaware of.
Okay, in the grand scheme of things placing a wager on a game in which you or your club is not involved in isn’t the most grievous crime but it’s the principal.
The rules are there and it’s not as if footballers like Demichelis need the money – so why do it?
Mind you, the way the Argentinian performed in City’s recent defeat to Manchester United you could have been excused for thinking he’d put a fiver on City’s bitter rivals taking the points!
Should players be allowed to bet on matches not involving their club?
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