A Conservative MP has claimed that Manchester United and Wayne Rooney are believed to be included in an investigation into image rights tax dodging.
As many as 43 players and 12 football clubs are currently under investigation by HMRC around the issue of image rights, in addition to eight agents.
MP Charlie Elphicke raised the issue in the Commons this afternoon, mentioning Manchester United and Rooney specifically.
"HM Revenue and Customs says it's investigating 43 Premier League players and 12 clubs for image rights tax-dodging, believed to include Manchester United," he said.
"Would you agree fans are right to be angry that big clubs, including players like England captain Wayne Rooney, stand accused of dirtying the beautiful game with a culture of excessive greed and tax-dodging?"
Sports Minister Tracey Crouch replied: "I agree with you that those in football should protect the reputation of football.
"But you are asking me to comment on a matter that HMRC is still investigating, and football players, clubs, managers are treated no differently to others and are expected to adhere to the same principles."
United and Rooney have both since denied any wrongdoing.
Barney Corkhill
