Cristian Montano: Oldham sack winger after spot-fixing arrest

League One club Oldham Athletic have confirmed that they have sacked winger Cristian Montano.

The 22-year-old was one of six men arrested as part of an investigation into spot-fixing by the National Crime Agency and bailed until April 2014.

Montano, who had been at Boundary Park since the summer of 2012, was suspended without pay by the Latics following the initial allegations.

The former West Ham trainee made 48 appearances, scoring four goals.

A club statement read: "After a thorough investigation carried out by Oldham Athletic Football Club relating to the conduct of Cristian Montano, a decision has been made by the board to dismiss the player forthwith.

"Oldham Athletic take matters such as this extremely seriously and believe it was essential to act as swiftly as possible."

Director Barry Owen told BBC Radio Manchester: "It's been a very difficult week for the club. It's not an easy decision that we've had to make, but it's been made.

"We've got to move on. We've got a big FA Cup tie tomorrow evening [against Mansfield] and the lads are up for it. We've got to move on. We've made the decision and we believe that's the right decision for our fans and the football club.

"I just hope that people realise we've acted positively, and not hastily may I add."