PETER: DON’T TOUCH VOID
FROM BACK PAGE the announcement coming just hours after English football’s rulers made the same call.
Clubs down south have claimed games could take place behind closed doors by May but Record Sport understands that is wishful thinking.
We revealed last Saturday there is virtually no chance of a ball being kicked in this country again before August and it’s unlikely season 2019/20 will ever be finished on the pitch.
Now with his side on the brink of an historic ninth consecutive title, Lawwell wants to know the way forward in Scotland.
This week Rangers’ managing director Stewart Robertson insisted Celtic shouldn’t be crowned champions unless the season is completed and Ann Budge vowed to take legal action if the SPFL relegate Hearts.
Robertson claimed sporting integrity is paramount and that only when the 38-match schedule is completed should the final league places be confirmed.
With clubs likely to be forced to pay out millions to fans, broadcasters and sponsors if the 2019/20 is voided, Lawwell says that’s not a viable option.
He said: “Our strong preference is, of course, to complete all remaining matches. As many have already said, the season cannot be voided as the consequences of that are so severe.
“In the event matches can’t be completed, the responsibility to find a fair and reasonable solution for the finalisation of all domestic leagues will be with the Scottish football governing bodies.
“We hope the governing bodies are able to provide some clarity to clubs and supporters as soon as possible on the way forward, although we appreciate that this is a hugely demanding time.”
Jambos owner Budge has been forced to ask players and club staff to take a 50 per cent pay cut and Lawwell, in a message on Celtic’s website, said: “During such a difficult period, we also extend our thoughts to all other football clubs who are affected by these events.
“We realise the hugely damaging effect these circumstances will have on clubs of all sizes across Scotland, Europe and beyond.”
Lawwell admitted health is a priority with the world gripped by the COVID-19 crisis. He said: “This is a worrying time for us all.
“The health of everyone in football and society is always the priority but we hope clubs find a way through these testing times and ensure that the game we all love can thrive again as soon as possible.”
The SPFL/SFA Joint Response group confirmed late last night football will not return before April 30. They also claimed there was virtually no chance of Scotland’s play-off with Israel going ahead in June.
The statement read: “It has become clear that in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic, Scottish football would welcome as much clarity as possible on the earliest date football could resume in Scotland.
“Clubs need to be able to make informed decisions regarding training and work schedules. The SFA is supportive of UEFA’s postponement of EURO 2020 but has already indicated there is a limit to what can be done to prepare for the UEFA Nations League play-off provisionally scheduled for June this year.
“It remains ambitious to believe that the match will go ahead as scheduled.”
The statement went on: “Finally it remains Scottish football’s firm intention to begin the 2020-21 season as soon as is practicably possible this year.”