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FIFA endorses use of lie detectors to root out match-fixing

Shadows of journalists are seen next to a logo of the football's world governing body FIFA after a press conference on October 4, 2013 at ist headquarters
Image: FIFPro, the player's union, are unhappy with the use of lie detectors

FIFA has endorsed plans by Czech club FK Banik Most to ask their players to take voluntary lie detector tests, if it falls within Czech Law.

The world player's union FIFPro, however, has strongly recommended the Banik players do not undertake the test.

The second division side asked their players to undergo the test after being concerned by the performance of some players during a game on April 26, in which they lost 4-0 to FK Pardubice and conceded all four goals in the first 30 minutes.

The club have told Sky Sports News HQ that they have spoken to all their players, hired a detective company and will ask questions only to do with the match, as they hope to root out or absolve the club of any allegations of match fixing.

A FIFA spokesman told Sky Sports News HQ on Wednesday the governing body welcomed all efforts to fight match manipulation within the legal framework of that particular country, but insisted the method of a lie detector is not part of FIFA’s ongoing integrity initiative.

There are thought to be lie detectors being used successfully to fight match manipulation in other countries, with no objection from FIFA, but FIFPro does not endorse their use.

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