The SFA appeals process is lazy
ANDY WALKER has blasted the SFA’s appeals procedure as ‘lazy’ and an ‘embarrassment’ in the wake of Scott Brown’s sending off last weekend.
The Celtic skipper saw red in the 2-2 draw away to Ross County for a lunge on Liam Boyce and looked poised to miss this weekend’s Scottish Cup clash with Rangers.
However, it soon emerged that his appeal would not be heard until next week as, because Monday was a bank holiday, the process couldn’t get underway.
That means Celtic, who have until 3pm today to lodge the paperwork, will be able to field their captain in the knowledge the fast-track system to attempt to overturn his two-game ban won’t start until after the semi-final.
“Celtic are right to take advantage of the very lazy governance of Scottish football,” said Walker. “The idea they can’t meet to decide on Celtic’s appeal is an embarrassment.
“But every club will do the same and it’s a boost they have Scott Brown available because under Brendan Rodgers he has shown a great improvement in his game. It was 100% a red card and I don’t think he will win his appeal.
“If the process is in place to be taken advantage of, then by all means Celtic should use it. It’s such a big game as it’s the next step for their quest for a Treble.”
It transpired on Sunday that the SFA had told clubs in advance about the potential delay, but Walker still isn’t impressed.
He added: “I don’t think it really washes that they got in touch with clubs.
“The idea that whoever is sitting on a panel to decide if an appeal is success can’t get together is pretty laughable.
“I don’t think there’s any question Celtic will lose the appeal. But I imagine they will want to have their captain at Hampden.”