Scottish FA blast Celtic for appealing Lennon ban

SCOTTISH FOOTBALL Association president George Peat has launched a scathing attack on Celtic following their decision to appeal against manager Neil Lennon’s six-match touchline ban.

The Parkhead club were highly critical of the SFA in a statement released after the sanctions were handed down to the Hoops boss, who on Tuesday lost his appeal against an automatic two-match ban following his dismissal against Hearts on November 10.

Celtic claimed they were “very surprised and extremely disappointed” by what they described as excessive punishment, while calling for the SFA’s processes and structures to be updated.

But Peat has branded Celtic’s complaints as “tiresome” and told them to focus more on their own discipline.

He said: “Celtic’s policy of airing their grievances in public is becoming tiresome.

“It is ironic that they have chosen to criticise the Scottish FA’s processes and structures yet again on the eve of our two-day seminar which will culminate in a new strategy, incorporating streamlined structures and more efficient procedures.

“The Scottish FA is acutely aware of the need to modernise. That was why we commissioned the Henry McLeish Review, which we are committed to implementing.

“It is also ironic, given the constant demands for transparency and accountability, that the statement issued by Celtic last night was not attributed to anyone.

“Perhaps Celtic should devote more time to their own responsibilities and discipline than questioning others.”

Celtic last night responded to Peat’s remarks by challenging their timing.

The club questioned Peat’s justification for speaking out while Lennon prepares to contest the six-match ban.

A statement read: “In response to an SFA statement we find it slightly curious that once again SFA president George Peat has seen fit to involve himself by attacking Celtic in this way.

“Particularly when there is an ongoing appeal against yesterday’s judgement to impose a six-match ban on Neil Lennon.”

Meanwhile Paddy McCourt and Niall McGinn are “shocked and disappointed” at having bullets sent to them but neither will allow the matter to obstruct their respective careers, according to the players’ agent.

Strathclyde Police are carrying out an investigation after a package containing bullets and addressed to 27-year-old McCourt at Celtic Park was discovered by Royal Mail staff.

Bullets sent to McGinn, 23, and Parkhead boss Neil Lennon last week were detected by postal workers in Mallusk, County Antrim. The packages were posted in Northern Ireland.

Gerry Carlile, the players’ representative, said: “I have spoken to both Paddy and Niall and while both are shocked and disappointed, they are determined this won’t derail their efforts on the park.

“Both are encouraged by the support and sympathy they have received from both sides of the divide in recent days.

“However, I hope the PSNI (Police Service Northern Ireland) and Strathclyde Police are investigating thoroughly and that those responsible are caught and brought to justice swiftly.”