Boro star’s former agent arrested by fraud squad

Sep 4 2008 by Graeme Whitfield, The Journal

THE former agent of Middlesbrough and England winger Stewart Downing has been arrested by fraud squad officers. It is understood the arrest of Ian Elliott follows a complaint by Downing himself regarding the way his financial affairs have been handled.

A 43-year-old woman has also been arrested.

A Cleveland Police spokeswoman said yesterday: “Cleveland Police can confirm that officers from their economic crime unit (fraud section) have arrested a 50-year-old man and a 43-year-old woman from the Newcastle upon Tyne area on suspicion of offences of conspiracy to defraud and money laundering.

“They are currently being questioned by police at a police station in the Northumbria area.”

The star is currently on international duty with England ahead of the World Cup qualifier with Andorra.

In a statement, Middlesbrough FC said: “Middlesbrough Football Club can confirm that it was approached some time ago by Stewart Downing with concerns he had regarding the way his and his company’s affairs have been handled.

“The club advised him to involve lawyers and accountants to investigate these concerns.

“Having established his position, Stewart made a formal complaint to Cleveland Police who have since been investigating matters.

“This led to the arrest today of a man and a woman relating to the investigation. The Football Association are aware of the position and are continuing to monitor its progress.”

Downing had terminated the contract of Elliott, a licensed FIFA agent, earlier this year. Ian Elliott has proven a controversial figure in the past. Boro chairman Steve Gibson criticised his influential role in managing Downing’s future in January this year.

An FA spokesman said: “The FA can confirm that it was made aware by Middlesbrough FC of concerns relating to the actions of a licensed football agent in connection to their player Stewart Downing’s financial affairs.

“The FA then acted as liaison between the club and Cleveland Police. We will continue to liaise with both parties to ensure that any potential breaches of football regulations are dealt with at the appropriate time.”