Southampton FC latest club to contact police over historical child abuse

Southampton Football Club has confirmed it has contacted police over claims of historical child abuse.

The club said it had been given information regarding non-recent sexual abuse which they have passed to Hampshire Police.

It added that it is offering "full support" to officers so that "historical allegations...may be brought to light".

In a statement, the club said it is working "closely and tirelessly with the Premier League to promote the safeguarding of children and young people who are under our care or using our facilities, and their well-being is paramount to all staff."

On Thursday, the National Police Chiefs' Council said around 350 people have come forward to report child sexual abuse within football clubs.

Eighteen police forces across the UK are now investigating claims of child sexual abuse in football.