By Tom Mison

Football has never been too far away from a scandal. Many have shaken the footballing community in the past, be it fixing matches or corruption within the governing body FIFA. However, the latest problem may change the face of football forever.

Claims of child sex abuse in English football first became known in November 2016. Former professional player Andy Woodward came forward and spoke out about serial offender Barry Bennell. Bennell, already serving time in jail for sexual offences, is said to have abused players during his time as a coach at Crewe Alexandra. Since Woodward spoke out, up to six other former players also accused Bennell of abusing them.

Away from Bennell, other coaches have also been accused, in something which has been described as a problem on a scale ‘as big as Jimmy Savile’. Savile was a former TV personality who, after his death, was revealed to be one of the most notorious sexual predators in history. Now, with everything coming to light, football faces a serious problem.

The FA have launched a full investigation into the claims, with numerous police forces across the country also involved. As of the beginning of December, over 350 cases have been reported to police via a phone hotline, with more expected to come to light. The FA now have to find out how to deal with and move forward from one of the most controversial and damaging criminal cases in its history.