Wayne Rooney’s father arrested in betting scandal

Wayne Rooney's father and uncle have both been reportedly arrested as part of an investigation into a Scottish betting scandal.

According to the Daily Mirror, both men are two of nine that were arrested today following a nine month investigation into an alleged betting scam in the SPL. The scandal is centred around the sending off of Motherwell midfielder Steve Jenning, who has also been arrested, while Rooney's father, 48-year-old Richie Rooney, has reportedly been arrested at his home in West Derby.

Jenning was sent off in a December 2010 tie against Heart after putting a hand on referee Stevie O'Reilly while appealing for a penalty. Eyebrows were raised, however, after several huge bets had been made during the game on the possibility of the player receiving his marching orders.

SFA chief executive Stewart Regan has said that today's arrests follow "extensive inquiries" into possible betting scandals in the SPL.

“While the investigation involves several other individuals outside Scotland, it is important to stress that the evidence gathered throughout this thorough period of investigation has involved only one Scottish match," he said.

“Motherwell FC are aware of the situation and will issue a response in due course.

Merseyside police have also confirmed the nine arrests, stating:

"Detectives have today executed warrants at 10 addresses across Merseyside and Glasgow and arrested nine men as part of an investigation into suspicious betting activity.

“The arrests are the culmination of a joint operation with the Gambling Commission and the nine who have been arrested for conspiracy to defraud are being interviewed by detectives.

“Those arrested are a 29-year-old from Bootle, a 48-year-old from West Derby, a 54-year-old from Norris Green, a 26-year-old from Croxteth, a 22-year-old from Kirkdale, a 31-year-old from Litherland, a 68-year-old from Fazakerley, a 36-year-old from Kirkby and a 26-year-old from Glasgow."