The Football Association are expected to hand Chelsea a heavy punishment if they are found to have paid money to a victim to keep his complaint that he was sexually abused by a former club scout quiet, reports the London Evening Standard.

Chelsea are facing an FA inquiry after claims emerged they paid 'hush' money to a former youth player when he approached them two years ago to make allegations about Eddie Heath, who was employed at Stamford Bridge in the Seventies.

FA chairman Greg Clarke has promised to act strongly if a club are seen to have tried to buy a victim's silence.

There is no timeline when Chelsea's case will be handled and the issue is complicated by the fact the police want to talk to all victims of abuse first.

Heath is in no position to defend himself because he passed away five years ago.

A Chelsea statement said: "The club have retained an external law firm to carry out an investigation concerning an individual employed by the club in the Seventies, who is now deceased.

"The club have also contacted the FA to ensure that all possible assistance is provided as part of their wider investigation. This will include providing the FA with any relevant information arising out of the club's investigation."