The Sheffield United-owned Chengdu Blades have been relegated from China's top flight along with one other club in a match-fixing scandal, the Chinese Football Association (CFA) have confirmed. Chengdu, who were taken over by the Bramall Lane club four years ago, and Guangzhou GPC have been demoted from the Chinese Super League while second division side Qingdao Halifeng have been disqualified completely.

According to the CFA, Chengdu paid bribes in September 2007 while Guangzhou were penalised for paying bribes in August and September 2006.

The relegation of the two sides means the Chinese Super League, which is due to start next month, now contains only 14 teams.