AFC Wimbledon suspend Wally Downes after FA charge issued for allegedly betting on football

BY RICHARD CAWLEY

AFC Wimbledon have suspended manager Wally Downes after he was charged by the FA for allegedly betting on football matches.

The Dons issued a statement this afternoon.

It said: “Club manager Wally Downes has been suspended from first team duties pending further notice.

“The club has been informed that Wally has been charged by the FA for misconduct under FA Rule E1(b) in respect of eight bets placed on football matches between November 30 2013 and  July 12 2019.

“Given the seriousness of this breach in FA regulations, the club has decided to suspend Wally with immediate effect, giving time for the club and Dons Trust boards to look at the allegations more closely and make a further announcement in due course.

“Saturday’s match with Peterborough United will be managed by Glyn Hodges and the coaching staff.”

An FA statement said: “Wally Downes has been charged with misconduct under The FA’s Betting Rules.

“It is alleged that, contrary to FA Rule E8, the AFC Wimbledon manager placed eight bets on football matches between 30 November 2013 and 12 July 2019.

“He has until 4 October 2019 to provide a response.”

PICTURE BY PAUL EDWARDS