However, Arsenal can confirm that it has had a technical relationship with Beveren since 2001.

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At no time has anyone at Arsenal been contacted by any regulatory or investigatory body with respect to its relationship with Beveren.

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Arsenal Football Club is aware that BBC Newsnight is carrying a story this evening purporting to describe Arsenal's relationship with Belgian football club, Beveren.

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In addition, Arsenal confirms that it has never owned, directly or indirectly, any shares in Beveren or had any power whatsoever to influence its management or administration.

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It did in 2001 provide funds of 1, 570, 703 Euros by way of loan to a member of the consortium to assist in stabilising the finances of Beveren.

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Mathieu Flamini, 22, has proved to be an extremely capable left-back while Emmanuel Eboue, also 22 and brought to the club from Beveren in January 2005, has been sensational.

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Arsenal and all its staff have acted properly throughout, in accordance with all applicable rules and regulations, and in the best interests of Beveren, Arsenal and the broader footballing community.

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For example, during the course of the relationship, Arsenal players David Grondin, Liam Chilvers, John Halls and Graham Stack all spent successful loan periods at Beveren as did Emmanuel Eboue, who played in a number of trial matches with Arsenal whilst contracted to Beveren.

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