SFA braced for criticism over second chance for Mackay

made reportedly racist comments is being widely tipped as the favourite for a key role in the SFA,” Haughey said.

One of the performance director’s responsibilities is to oversee the continued progress of Scotland’s women’s teams, with the full national side having qualified for the European Championships next year.

The SFA is braced for further criticism for an appointment that some claim is a retrograde step at a time of heightened concern over racial issues.

The English FA was accused of damaging their own credibility when an investigation into the conduct of both Mackay and Moody ended without any punishment.

Legal advice said the FA was unable to issue charges because the texts had been sent “with a legitimate expectation of privacy”.

As well as remorse, Mackay later expressed the hope he would be handed another chance in football. To the surprise of some he was then appointed Wigan Athletic manager in November 2014.

Then Wigan chairman Dave Whelan said it was time to move on from the controversy, adding that Mackay had already apologised “publicly” for what happened.

Mackay, who won five caps for Scotland, was sacked just six months later having led Wigan to only five wins in 24 matches and with the club on the verge of dropping into League One.

Prior to this appointment he had spoken about his desire to return to the game – and he believed he should be given the chance.

“I certainly hope I’m given that opportunity,” Mackay said two years ago. “The last 20 years working with a huge diversity of people who have had dealings with me would show that.

“I did it in a period where I was under immense pressure and stress in terms of relationships that weren’t going too well at the football club at the time. That doesn’t excuse anything. I’m a manager, a leader of people and it shouldn’t have happened. I’m a human being and I made a mistake.”

“I’m a leader of people and it shouldn’t have happened. I’m a human being and I made a mistake”