McFadden boost in battle to beat bankruptcy

BY DAVID MEIKLE reporters@dailyrecord.co.uk his legal team reveal that he is in discussions to clear the debt.

The figures in the case have not been disclosed but McFadden, who did not appear in court, has sought the help of financial advisers.

Steven Chesney, who represented the footballer during the hearing, asked for more time to allow the money to be handed over.

He added: “The situation here is that my client is in advanced discussions with an immediate family member to enable the debt to be settled in full.

“He is receiving help from my firm and has spoken to financial advisers.

“There is a bank statement from the family member here and it shows that there are funds in it that are above the sum owed.”

The motion for extra time was not opposed by HMRC lawyer Anji McMullen and was granted by Sheriff Thomas Millar.

The case is expected to call again later this month. A string of high-profile former footballers have fallen foul of the taxman in recent years.

Ex-Rangers star Barry Ferguson was declared bankrupt with debts of £1.4million after he failed to settle with HMRC.

Other football stars who have gone bust include Chris Sutton, Darren Jackson, Rab Douglas and Billy McKinlay.

McFadden achieved hero status with the Tartan Army after scoring a stunning winner against France in the Parc de Princes in 2007. He played 48 times for his country.

He started his playing career with Motherwell before Everton signed him for £1.25million in 2003. He moved to Birmingham City for £5million in 2008 but returned to Everton in 2011.

McFadden signed for Queen of the South on a short-term contract last year and was made assistant Scotland coach in March. He also works as a pundit with Sky Sports.

The HMRC said: “We don’t comment on identifiable individuals.”