Armando Izzo

Genoa defender Izzo denies involvement in match-fixing scandal

Published May. 24, 2016 5:22 a.m. ET

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Genoa defender Armando Izzo has denied any involvement in the latest match-fixing scandal to hit Italian football.

Izzo was one of 10 people arrested on Monday after an investigation into two games involving Serie B side Avellino during the 2013-14 season.

The 24-year old, who was part of Italy's original training party for Euro 2016 but cut from the 30-man provisional squad, told Gazetta dello Sport: "I have read the news that links me to matters I'm completely alien to. I am a footballer and I have never considered the idea of match-fixing.

"I wish to specify that in the two games under examination, Modena-Avellino and Avellino-Reggina, I was injured and did not play.

"I have complete faith in the judiciary powers and I'm certain I'll be able to clear my position."

Italian police are investigating claims Izzo acted as a go-between for the infamous Camorra mafia from his home city of Naples.

The clan is accused of bribing two other players in order to make tens of thousands of pounds worth of profits after betting on Avellino's 3-0 win over Reggina and a 1-0 defeat to Modena in 2014.

Former Avellino players Luca Pina and Francesco Millesi have been placed under house arrest while the investigation continues.

Several Serie A players were among 100 people investigated in 2011 as part of the "Calcioscommesse" scandal. Incoming Chelsea manager Antonio Conte was fully acquitted by the courts last week.

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Armando Izzo

Genoa

Serie A