Blades backing Chinese action on match fixing

Chengdu, who were acquired by United four years ago, were one of the three clubs punished as part of a clampdown supported by the Chinese government.

Officals from Bramall Lane flew out to China to provide support and guidance in the investigation.

A United spokesman said: "Sheffield United will always support moves to clean up the game whether it is in China or elsewhere in the world. Chinese football has learnt its lesson and, as such, anti-gambling and anti-match fixing actions will make football ever more regulated for the good of the game.

"The Chengdu Blades have not broken any law or regulations otherwise the Chinese FA would have cancelled the club's registration as is the case with Qingdao," he added. "Chengdu have been dragged into this because we employed a deputy general manager – You Ke Wei – who was charged in respect of match fixing during a period before he joined Chengdu."