Regan goes to war with McBride QC

After yesterday’s comments from Paul McBride where he questioned the honesty and integrity of the SFA, the Chief Exec has come out fighting today.

The statement reads “The Scottish FA is shocked and angry at coverage in today’s newspapers following an interview given by Paul McBride QC to BBC Scotland.

Scottish FA chief executive Stewart Regan would like to make the following points:

1.       We note that Paul McBride does not act on behalf of or as a spokesman for Celtic FC, its manager, or anyone associated with the club.

2.       In making his unjustified and inflammatory remarks, Paul McBride appears to be acting as a self-publicist and not as a QC.

3.       Paul McBride’s wild and inaccurate statements are defamatory and appear to be malicious.

4.       The Scottish FA is now considering, with the benefit of legal advice, whether to sue just Paul McBride for damages or whether to also sue other parties.  

5.       A formal complaint is being made to the Faculty of Advocates with respect to the way in which Paul McBride has allowed himself to be held out as making comments to the media in his capacity as a QC.

6.       We are aware that many observers and members of the public would appreciate clarity on the decisions made at yesterday’s meeting of the Disciplinary Committee. It would be inappropriate to comment publicly on committee decisions until the seven-day time frame for any appeal has elapsed.”

It is about time the SFA showed some teeth, and it will be interesting to see how this legal challenge fares. I only hope it doesn’t cost them too much and suck money away from the game.

Mr McBride has been clever with his choice of words, and I also think Celtic are being clever by letting him speak out without being an official spokesman.