English League Championship: Sunderland officials have launched an investigation after three players were alleged to have taken part in a filmed sex session.

Republic of Ireland squad member Liam Lawrence, who plays in midfield, goalkeeper Ben Alnwick and striker Chris Brown are reported to have appeared in the film with a mystery woman.

The players can expect to be in trouble with chairman Niall Quinn and manager Roy Keane if they are found to have breached the club's disciplinary rules regarding behaviour that adversely affects the image or good name of the club.

Lawrence (24) is currently on loan at Stoke with a view to completing a permanent move, while Alnwick (19) is to join Tottenham in a £1 million switch in January. Brown (21) remains part of Keane's squad, but has not been involved in the last three games.