QPR, Hasselbaink address corruption claims
On the heels of The Telegraph's extensive investigation into a corruption scandal in English football, Queens Park Rangers and its gaffer Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink have released a statement addressing allegations that he was among those in breach of FA rules.
The first head to roll was that of England boss Sam Allardyce, who was sacked after just 67 days and one competitive match against Slovakia.
Related: Allardyce sacked as England manager after sting revelations
Implicated in the same sting that saw Telegraph staffers pose as investors interested in skirting around rules which prohibit third-party ownership of players, QPR is looking to get out ahead of the allegations concerning Hasselbaink.
QPR released a statement Wednesday, saying, "The club is aware of the allegations made against QPR manager Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink in The Telegraph."
Related: Premier League managers accused of taking kick-backs
"First and foremost, the club takes very seriously any alleged breach of the rules," the statement continues, "With this in mind, the club can confirm that there will be a thorough internal investigation regarding this matter.
"However, we have every confidence in our manager and the robust systems and processes the club has in place."
Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink on Daily Telegraph claims: "I deny any accusation of wrongdoing on my part."
— Sky Sports News HQ (@SkySportsNewsHQ) September 28, 2016
Attached to the statement were words from Hasselbaink, who was filmed by The Telegraph agreeing to represent a Far East firm for a £55,000 fee.
"I have today, through my lawyers, responded in full to the accusations levelled against me by The Telegraph. I was approached by Mr. McGarvey and Ms. Newell of The Telegraph purporting to be players' agents.
Related: British sports minister calls for corruption probe
"They offered me a fee to make a speech in Singapore. I do not see anything unusual in being offered to be paid to make a speech."
Adamant in his innocence, Hasselbaink adds, "I did not make any promises in return. I did not ask QPR to purchase any of the players who were said to be managed by Mr. McGarvey and Ms. Newell and did not and would not recommend the purchase of a player for my personal gain. I deny any accusations of wrongdoing on my part."
QPR finishes the statement conceding that no further comment will be made at this time.