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Manchester City ask convicted child abuser and ex-coach Barry Bennell to give evidence in damages hearing and are accused of using 'information from one of Britain's most notorious paedophiles' to defend itself

Manchester City has been accused of using 'information from one of Britain's most notorious paedophiles' to defend itself.

Eight former youth footballers have launched a lawsuit at the High Court, claiming the abuse they received by prolific, convicted child abuser and ex-coach Barry Bennell, left them with psychiatric injuries, while six of the group say it robbed them of the chance of a lucrative career.

Each of the men, now in their 40s and 50s, is seeking damages, but City's lawyers have asked Bennell – serving a 34-year sentence in prison – to give evidence on their behalf in a bid to fight off the claims.