Celtic statement fans the flames of the SPFL’s rift with the SFA
CELTIC have accused the SFA of showing a “failure in leadership” after the governing body rejected calls for an independent review into the Rangers tax case.
The SFA wrote to member club son Thursday to announce it would not take part in any review proposed by the SPFL, claiming “raking over the coals” would damage the game.
But in a scathing statement, Celtic insist supporters across Scotland are “entitled” to answers over the authorities’ handling of the financial collapse of oldco Rangers.
A statement read: “Celtic has been in correspondence with the SFA in pursuit of the club’ s belief that an independent review should be commissioned to consider the events that led to the liquidation of Rangers Oldco and the governance issues arising from those events.
“This is exactly the same position as adopted by the SPFL board on behalf of all Scotland’s 42 professional clubs. The club believes that such a review is essential if a line is to be drawn under this whole affair.
“On that basis, Scottish football could learn lessons and move on.
“The club considers, however, that failure to carry out a full review of these events and issues, which have
been without precedent in Scottish football, would represent a failure in transparency, accountability and leadership.
“Celtic was, therefore, disappointed to note that the SFA board has confirmed that it does not intend to commission such a review. Throughout these processes, Celtic’s consistent objective has been to establish the full facts, which is surely the least that all stakeholders in Scottish football – including supporters of all clubs – are entitled to, and to learn the appropriate lessons. That remains our position.”
Celtic also released a series of letters yesterday, sent between Parkhead chief executive Peter Lawwell (right) and his S FA counterpart Stewart Regan.
The SFA was not available for comment yesterday.
What seems clear is that an issue that has been rumbling under the surface of the Scottish game for some time is about to come to a head.