I received updates direct from last week’s Scottish Football League meeting shortly after it concluded. My information was that Neil Doncaster in particular was given a torrid time and that the mood among clubs was firmly against agreeing to place Sevco into the First Division.
Within a couple of hours it was clear that many in the media had been given a different impression and that if the vote was taken then, a ‘healthy majority would vote in favour’. To a degree I think we are all susceptible to messages we want to hear but it has been a feature of this debacle that executives from the national bodies have given clear guidance to the media that ‘Newco’ would be voted into the SPL, as it was, or now into the First Division.
On more than one occasion I’ve heard “You might have heard different, but Neil Doncaster told me….”
There is no shortcut for legwork and attention to detail. On this subject, credit to STV, who present informed information on how Friday’s vote is likely to pan out, with references. Of the 30 clubs in the SFL, the report 14 have declared an intention to vote against plans to plant Sevco into the First Division, one will abstain and one has (incorrectly) been told they are ineligible to vote. Another 14 are yet to declare.
It seems likely that the SFL vote will go the way of the SPL vote. There is a desire to retain the sporting element to our game among clubs, if not among administrators.
In a statement yesterday Clyde FC nailed several of the myths behind threats made to SFL clubs:
“We have obtained a copy of the Settlement Agreement signed up to by the SPL and the SFL in April 1998 – it is clear that the agreement is not ambiguous in this regard and there is no scope for the SPL to fail to meet the obligations to the SFL except by deliberately breaching the agreement… We have concluded that it defies credibility that the SPL clubs would instruct the SPL to deliberately breach a legal agreement.
“The matter is made worse because of the extent of uncertainty which hangs over Sevco. There is no need to prepare an exhaustive list of the issues as they are well publicised, however the extent of outstanding sanctions that may or may not be levied against a club which has yet to obtain SFA membership, together with the increasing number of possible commercial and legal challenges to the transactions to date simply presents a significant risk to the ability of the club to fulfil its fixtures in any league. Given that some of these matters are in the hands of the governing bodies it seems inexplicable that they are left hanging.”
In short, the Scottish Football League has a binding contract with the SLP which they are entitled to enforce. Clyde also refer on the matter we have discussed here for many weeks, Sevco are trying to buy a SFA membership which has significant outstanding disciplinary issues against it which could see the membership suspended. Instead of providing clarity, the SPL and SFA have refused to set deadlines of proceed with hearings.
We can speculate if SFA chief exec, Stewart Regan, will inform SFL clubs in person on Friday of plans to disband judicial oversight from our game instead of asking Lord Carloway’s panel to reconvene.
Despite the valiant efforts of many football fans and clubs, our game has been ruined by years of destructive, self-serving, leadership.
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SunnyBhoy on 11 July, 2012 at 14:57 said:
Augsburg V Celtic
Thanks to @MattMcGlone9 for link. Strange seeing the black socks. At least we won’t be wearing black armbands.
>>>
Thanks for that…..it seemed they were really happy to host us.
HH!
Surely if you cross Scottish Roof Repairers with Doncaster and Regan you get Fiddlers on the Roof?
Paul67
I think this is relevant to your blog today. In the way the SFA and SPL have tried to save Sevco they have demonstrated the SFA is fit for purpose and need demolished and rebuilt.
Long post on licensing and Membership and what the lack of clarity has led to or enabled.
Oldco were in the SPL so the SFA Licensing regime was one that echoes the UEFA FFP regime and not being able to provide accounts at all never mind some with a “going concern” qualification ruled them out of Europe this season coming. Even the SFA under Peat and then Ogilve who were inclined to approve a license on the back of a fag packet accounts statement, would have found it difficult in April/May when SPL/UEFA licenses were being granted to persuade UEFA that Rangers, in administration by then, were a going concern .
Now when it comes to the SFL, National Club Licensing applies and it has different criteria but one hurdle under that is the provision of three years accounts but as the SFA do not have to worry about UEFA at the lower level then for the good of the game as they see it, they could waive that rule based on the projections they have asked Greene for in his application for SFA Membership.
Confused? You will be because unlike the SPL, where a yes vote to take Sevco into the SPL would have conferred automatic Membership of the SFA, Sevco, whether in SFL1 or 3 will still need to apply to SFA for Membership (not a national club licence which they would also have to comply with ) and whilst the criteria for a national club license is listed in National club licensing rules there is no listed criteria for SFA Membership other than promulgated by the SFA Board from time to time.
In theory the SFA could refuse a club license but grant SFA Membership. The two, Membership and licence (at either SPL or SFL level) should be synonymous but using licensing criteria for SFA membership would tie down the SFA and they do not want that.
Going back to the process, (and the link to Paul’s end point) if Sevco get a SFL yes vote then the SFA in considering to give them SFA Membership will have to vault the appeal panel, two contracts, SFA fines and outstanding debts to other clubs hurdles. (and the no accounts criteria in club licensing and I’m assuming they can meet other club licensing criteria).
So in theory the SFA could refuse Sevco in SFL3 or SFL1 even if the SFL vote for it, which of course beggars the question why is the cart in front of the horse? Which gives rise to the suspicion that come hell or high water Sevco will be in one league or another this sesaon (if they can field a team and surmount other logistics).
Now if the SFA somehow turn their back on their own rules the only justification can be that our game cannot lose all the support Sevco will bring back, which is giving a commercial decision precedence over sporting integrity.
But for me the SFA was the champion of the sport and the SPL the business champion, with the SFA acting as a check on the SPL. This clearly has not happened and must be rectified by removing all ambiguity that covers rules, roles and responsibility. And to make sure both SFA stick to new clear rules roles and responsibilities they must be accountable to some external body/quango whatever, who have supporter representatives and by God have we not seen evidence of their ability and eloquence on here and RTC to find a few the support at large could have faith in.
Restoring faith in a set up that has lost all trust should be the top priority now, not saving Sevco, and I expect that to become the focus of attention in the next few weeks because the only way supporters at large will accept Sevco anywhere and think they are watching a fair competition fairly governed, is for the SFA too fall on its sword and be reconstitued..
Awe_Naw…,
aye av noticed the results of yer boredom :o)
garygillespieshamstring on 11 July, 2012 at 16:21 said:
Adu you want to know a secret?
¿¿⊥Ǝʎ ƃN∩⊥S ןƎƎℲ ∩Oʎ Op ¡ƃNI⊥S ∀ SI SIH⊥ ‘ᖈƎqWƎWƎᖈ – ROW Z on 11 July, 2012 at 16:26 said:
That idea has great potential.
Not a great fan of the black socks with the new home kit. Looks like two different sets of strips have got mixed up at the laundrette.
starry plough on 11 July, 2012 at 12:41 said:
Hector Avocado. Silence is tacit consent. on 11 July, 2012 at 12:37 said:
Why don’t you write in Scotland you get promoted, there are many who post on here and who support and play for Celtic who are Protestant so why don’t you chuck it with the Protestant digs??
This is not about religion this is Celtic…
—–
Good point mate!
HH
Reason for ole black sox is meant to be historic.
For all the aesthetic problems this raises it’s nice to still have a history to refer to ;/)
medtim – Simple answer, it can’t.
League restructure will require notice given in accordance with the articles of association for both the SPL and SFL. Clubs will have made long term financial and sponsorship commitments based on the current league structure and will require a number of years to develop revised strategies without finding themselves out of pocket through cancelled contracts or loss of revenue.
Celtic unveil new home strip as they prepare for 125th anniversary
Apr 26 2012
Georgios Samaras Adam Matthews Image 1
CELTIC unveiled a new home kit for season 2012/2013 today with a nod to their history as they approach their 125th anniversary year.
The new Nike kit features nine thin green and white hoops as opposed to the traditional seven in tribute to the nine-in-a-row titles won between 1965 and 1974.
It also features black socks as opposed to the traditional white and a club crest bordered by a Celtic knot – again in tribute to the club’s heritage.
Sponsor Tennent’s Lager have moved their logo from the centre of the jersey to underneath the badge.
Celtic Chief Executive Peter Lawwell said: “Once again we are delighted with the fantastic design which our kit supplier Nike has developed.
“We have been grateful to enjoy a strong relationship with Nike, such a successful global sports brand. This has been a hugely beneficial partnership for the club and our supporters and it is one we hope to continue for some time. Some supporters have complained about the black socks but this will reduce washing costs with black socks being used monthly”
Hoops stars Georgios Samaras and Adam Matthews modelled the strip at Parkhead this morning.
David Longmuir has reassured Scottish Football league clubs that they can vote ‘whatever way they like’ at Friday’s meeting over where a Rangers newco will play next season.
A large section of the Ibrox side’s supporters wish to enter the third division and work their way through the league structure.
However others such as SFA chief executive Stewart Regan have warned that would have far reaching consequences for the teams across the country.
Officials at Clyde and Raith Rovers have spoken of feeling bullied during the saga with Longmuir aiming to alleviate any fears after Wednesday’s SFL board meeting.
He said: “The one thing that is hugely important and that I’ve stressed to our clubs this morning is they have the freedom to vote whichever way they think is in the best interests of the game in Scotland.
“They can vote whatever way they like. The Scottish Football League will support whatever vote the SFL clubs make and we will deliver against the consequences of that vote.”
One proposal being examined is the expansion of the SPL to 14 teams for the 2013/14 season.
Longmuir added: “There are a number of options being looked at which involve the restructuring of the league. It’s part of a mix, there are others as well that we are looking at.
“Let’s be under no illusions. What we are trying to do here is to take Scottish football forward, and to take it forward in a way that excites fans, interests fans, keep clubs viable and doesn’t lose fans to the game.
“That’s our important mission and that involves a number of scenarios regarding bigger leagues, play-offs, better governance, better distribution of finance throughout the game and that is something worth going for.”
Hoops stars Georgios Samaras models life, 24/7.
Dontbrattbakkinanger on 11 July, 2012 at 16:46 said:
Ah pop no style, ah strickly roots
Althia & Donna csc
Pantaloon duck
I don’t mind if Adu.
On the socks front, the black socks were wor with the original hoops.
Probably too difficult to wash white socks at the steamie. :)
Ggh
good afternoon cqn
Carrol at 35 million,Jordan henderson 15 million,I think Brendan Rogers will maybe try to get rid of the two of them,inspired Kenny signings,
back to grave stones I think I remember Billy Connelly on his grave stone wanted the words IS IT THAT TIME ALREADY,
another one i heard was a well known gangster who had died had the words after his name WHAT THE F… ARE YOU LOOKING AT
SonsOfErin,
Thanks for the reply.
Same thoughts as my own.It can’t be done….within the rules.
My mantra for months now has been their number one enemy was not money it was time.I think,hope and pray I am right.
Alright lhads,
just logging on and reading some of the comments about possible CelticUSA.
Surely huge potential there, and the MLS is serious about expansion franchises where they are viable. A Celtic expansion franchise in the Boston area would surely be worth investigating? I personally would be very interested in following MLS on tv or through an internet subscription if there was a Celtic franchise. Chivas Guadalajara already have a Chivas USA playing in LA, I don’t see why a Celtic based side couldn’t play in the MLS.
It is very pie in the sky though, does Paul67 know if this has been investigated by the club? Two ways opf doing it spring to mind, firstly and most obviously the club could create a franchise based in the States, secondly someone external could look to start an MLS franchise, paying Celtic a fee for the right to use the name/badge/logo and other associated intellectual property and starting it up, but then, why Celtic and not AC Milan/Real Madrid/Manchester United?
Bit of a trek San Diego away in midweek :)))
medtim – Exactly! There’s definitely been a lot of fiddling while Rome burns. With ‘fiddling’ being the operative word.
D&P, SPL, SFA have all tried and failed with pointless and time-wasting endeavours which were doomed to failure. If they’d bit the bullet early on and accepted div 3 they might have actually sorted this out in time for the start of the season.
Much Adu about nothing.
gallagher on 11 July, 2012 at 17:01 said: Bit of a trek San Diego away in midweek :)))
==============================
Don’t worry Saltmarket CSC will probably be running a bus:)
HH
whitecrook tim on 11 July, 2012 at 16:54 said:
On Spike Milligans gravestone:
I told you I was ill.
SFA/SPL/SFL Joint Statement
ole Sean deserves it….
@gerryguk7
Boston is certainly a logical location for a Celtic MLS team, but that area is currently home to the New England Revolution. New York might be the best choice as it’s potentially large enough to support two clubs (the Red Bulls being the other.)
Whether truly viable or not, it’s still fun to speculate about ideas like this.
BRASILIAN FITBA ALERT
(Move along. Sadly, no Celtic news to be seen)
Bom dia,
…..just a few non Celtic related musings (or then again maybe they are ?)…
Copa do Brasil final tonight Palmeiras 2-0 up from the first leg are away to Coritiba, who have a pretty home impressive record (not exactly sure but it´s something like only three defeats since they lost last year’s final at home to Vasco). Coritiba (who sometimes play in the hoops) will be fired up for this, but a two goal deficit’s a big mountain to climb. On the other hand, the Palmeiras board have publicly stated that they will not continue to pay a big wage for manager Felipão (ex Chelsea) if they don’t get a result tonight. I’d say Palmeiras should win the Cup, but Coritiba should win tonight.
There’s also the Corinthians v Botafogo league game which was postponed due to Corinthians Libertadores games last week tonight. Corinthians are currently in the relegation zone, so now that the Libertadoes is out the way it’ll be interesting to see how they approach League business. ‘fogo are buzzing with the signing of Seedorf last week. An interesting match and a draw would not be silly bet.
Speaking about Seedorf, the Brasileirão is rapidly becoming a retirement home for the yesterday’s hero´s. Deco still pulls the strings (at least while he’s on the pitch, he rarely plays a full 90 these days) at Fluminense. Ronaldinho has rejuvenated, current league leaders Atletico-MG. Whilst, Diego Forlan has just signed for Inter RS. However, probably the most intriguing is old favourite, 34 yr old, Juan Roman Riquelme who will leave Boca this month. Flamengo, Cruzeiro and Palmeiras are all currently linked.
Still on the subject of midfield maestro’s, if rumours are to be believed, Paulo Henrique Ganso has played his last game for Santos and will move to Europe after the Olympics. Not quite sure about Ganso, he’s definitely the player who makes Neymar look good, but very prone to injuries and form dips. Definitely a mebbe’s aye/mebbe’s naw player in my book. On the other hand, Oscar who Chelsea have just signed from Inter RS, always looks the part whenever I see him play. Defo one to watch there.
At the other end of the spectrum , these past few weeks have seen some bright new striking prospects come through the ranks Romarinho (21) at Corinthians, Adryan (18) at Flamengo and Cidinho (19) at Botafogo have all caught the eye.
An interesting season lies ahead here, for sure.
…and finally, going back to that “Riquelme for sale” story, the great man has categorically denied all knowledge of any contact with a certain pie munching, East Kilbride manager of a “virtual” fitba team.
Then again Juan Roma has been known to be economical with the truth!!
the whole point of three years’ accounts is to prove that a club is a going concern BEFORE the season starts, otherwise you run the risk of an entire season going t1ts-up if you take on an unknown quantity.
It doesn’t make good business sense nor is it responsible.
The SFL could fall liable for costs to advertisers, sponsors and employees if they disregard a significant rule and a club then goes into administration.
This is sub-prime fitba’!
traditionalist88 on 11 July, 2012 at 17:05 said:
Like pioneers these bhoys :)))
HH
The joint statement: ‘The proposals are based on five principles previously outlined by the Scottish FA as key to streamlining governance, ensuring greater financial distribution and above all, providing better entertainment, enhanced competition and value for money for supporters.’
Why do they only name 4 of the 5 principles…
HH
Serge
I was told you were on earlier offering advice on holiday destinations.I never saw post but was told by a mate.
If you are the serge that i shipped football tops to a while ago you have my email address and I sent you a new email. Off again now.
Joint statement is last gasp, but who in their right mind would support the current incumbants to carry out any future administrative duties, they hae proven they are compromised.
Scottish football needs to deal with the current upheval caused by corruption, before it can move forward.
The short and sharp conclusion; “Frankly, Scotland doesn’t deserve Rangers any more.” was pure genuis.”
—————————————————————————————–
Frankly, I don’t deserve the chookie argylls any more!
a)The introduction of an enlarged top tier for Scottish Senior Professional Football.
b) A new detailed model for senior professional football in Scotland including number of divisions; number of clubs per division; number of matches per season per division; number of promotion and relegation places per division and the introduction and operation of play-offs.
c) An all-through distribution model providing certainty for all clubs as to the percentage of distributable income which will be received. As a minimum, clubs in the current third and fourth divisions will receive the settlement agreement proportion guaranteed as per the current arrangement. In addition, the value and number of parachute payments to relegated clubs will be considered.
d) The introduction of a pyramid for Scottish football to provide a route for licensed clubs to enter the new structure effective 2014/
trad88
e Saving the Dodo
HH
Why do they only name 4 of the 5 principles…
The fifth is “keeping Timmy down.”
gallagher on 11 July, 2012 at 17:15
The unwritten rule eh
HH
The bit I like is where it states that, if the committee can’t deliver inthe four months available, the SFA will itself implement the necessary changes. Lol!
We have waited months to find out what they will do about the sectarian singing, the court case, the lack of accounts and the dual contracts for one club! God help us all when they have to make a decision involving four leagues worth!
You couldn’t make it up.
HH