SFA to ask Burley to explain his version of events

GEORGE Burley, the Scotland manager, will this morning be summoned to a meeting at Hampden to ensure there is no repeat of the anarchy that jeopardised preparations for last night's World Cup qualifier against Iceland.

Gordon Smith, the Scottish Football Association chief executive, revealed that Burley will be attend an inquiry to explain his version of events that led to Barry Ferguson and Allan McGregor being dropped from the starting line-up after a drinking session.

Amid fresh reports that five other squad members pleaded with the manager to reinstate the pair yesterday morning, Burley will be asked to explain his decision to place both players on the bench for last night's 2-1 win over Iceland. Smith and the rest of the SFA are fully supportive of Burley's stance but are concerned by the latest embarrassing episode, after the retirements of Lee McCulloch and Kris Boyd.

"I'm not saying there will definitely be repercussions, but we will review the situation to make sure something like this does not happen again," said Smith. "He's made a decision and I know exactly why he's done it - he's told me his reasons.
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I'm going along with that, just now. After the game's passed, George and I will have an opportunity to sit down and discuss what's happened in the last few days and review the situation and how it's been dealt with."

Asked what elements specifically needed to be discussed, Smith added: "What happened; what the situation was in terms of players; whether players have acted in a certain way; if the players' behaviour wasn't the type of behaviour you'd expect from international players who are on duty.

"He's told me his reasons but we'll just decide whether it was the best decision and George knows that."

Smith also revealed Burley's position would be reviewed in the event of Scotland failing to reach the play-offs and was less than emphatic in guaranteeing the manager would remain in charge for the Euro 2012 qualification campaign despite last night's victory over Iceland.

"We'd not be looking at the thing short-term and saying we need to do something."

Burley did not consult with the SFA before imposing his sanctions and Smith rejected suggestions the behaviour of the captain and the goalkeeper demonstrated a lack of respect towards the manager and the national team cause.

"I don't think what has happened necessarily shows a lack of respect towards the manager," he said. "There have been many instances over the years where players have acted in a certain way. They get a few drinks in them and it has nothing to do with the manager.

"It's just that their behaviour at times has gone beyond the pale. I think that's what happened here. The fact both players have apologised shows they regret their actions. Let's hope that we can put this behind us."

Taken from the Herald