SFA working on solution to sectarianism

Scottish Football Association chief executive David Taylor insists any short-term UEFA punishment against sectarian chanting could backfire.

Rangers were cleared of a charge of ‘discriminatory chanting’ by supporters during the Champions League clash with Villarreal.

But UEFA delegate Gerhard Kapl has lodged an appeal against the verdict.

However, the SFA chief has warned that reported sanctions such as stadium closure and points deduction will not help rid the game of sectarianism.

Taylor told The Herald: “Those sorts of measures are not envisaged at present. They are last resorts.

“The simple solution might actually aggravate the problem so we can’t be naïve.

“There will be no panic measures and no sanctions made just simply to be seen to be doing something.

“There are all sorts of complexities but we are taking action and it predates the UEFA investigation.

“We will work out our action plan and the time frame is completion by the end of the calendar year.

“Flash-in-the-pan methods are not a solution. We will continue to take a considered and practical approach in consultation with the clubs to find the right measures.

“The issue has been brought to the fore by specific chanting I find objectionable, but they are part of a wider problem.”