Gordon Taylor does not have a gambling problem - PFA deputy

Gordon Taylor

Gordon Taylor does not have a gambling problem, according to his deputy at the Professional Footballers' Association.

It has been alleged that PFA chief executive Taylor ran up a personal debt to a bookmaker of more than £100,000.

"He'll have an occasional bet; it's part of society and football," the PFA's Bobby Barnes told BBC Radio 5 live. "I don't think he has a problem.

"In his role he's been pointing out problems for a footballer, but never said they shouldn't go out and gamble."

The PFA deputy chief executive added: "Gordon Taylor has done a tremendous amount for football and footballers in this country for 30-odd years.

"There are so many things I can talk to you about what we, as a union, and what Taylor, as a leader, has done for the benefit of players in this country."

In August, the PFA's management committee confirmed Taylor would stay in his post and retain the union's backing.

Taylor is not believed to have broken any of the governing body's regulations, nor is there any suggestion he has he done anything illegal.

The 68-year-old, who played more than 250 times for Bolton before spells with Birmingham, Blackburn, Vancouver Whitecaps and Bury, joined the PFA management committee in 1972 and became chief executive in 1981.