Football
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Japan to retain Javier Aguirre for Asian Cup despite match-fixing allegations

Japan say they will keep coach Javier Aguirre at his post for next month's Asian Cup, despite the former Mexico coach's alleged involvement in a match-fixing scandal, AFP reports.

Aguirre is due to appear in a Valencia court in February as part of a probe into match-fixing allegations dating back to 2011 when he was manager of Spanish side Real Zaragoza.

Prosecutors in Spain claim that Aguirre and 40 others were involved in rigging a league match which saw Zaragoza defeat Levante 2-1 to avoid relegation.

Manchester United midfielder Ander Herrera, Atletico Madrid captain Gabi and Aguirre have all been named as defendants by Spanish prosecutors in the case.

According to prosecutors, Zaragoza made bank transfers of a total of 965,000 euros ($1.2 million) to their own players and officials, who then took the money out of their accounts in cash to then give to Levante's players.

"Aguirre will lead the national team in the Asian Cup," JFA technical director Hiromi Hara told a news conference.

"What we need to do now is to understand the current situation correctly, and most importantly, to collect information to see where the scandal is going," he added.

The controversy has overshadowed Japan's preparations for the defence of their continental title, which kicks off in earnest against Palestine on Jan. 12.

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