Clubs back call for inquiry into league body but motion falls

The motion, tabled by Rangers and supported by Stranraer and Hearts, was discussed on Tuesday and put to a vote of members.

A majority of 75 per cent was required for the call to pass, and 27 of the 42 SPFL clubs voted against beginning an investigation.

Various reasons have been cited for clubs’ intentions, and not all based solely on the document released by Rangers last week which raised issues over last month’s controversial season conclusion.

Both Falkirk and Stenhousemuir backed the call for an inquiry on the basis that a review of the league governance was needed.

Bairns chairman Gary Deans, still frustrated that six clubs opposing reconstruction were able to halt talks last week, explained: “The issue for me was the broader issue of governance and the wider operations of the SPFL. I think it needs reviewed, improved and strengthened.

“Our vote was to emphasise the need for proper review and proper discussion on how things get improved but I was uncomfortable in the personalisation of it all which has been a distraction. A review could not only establish what lessons could be learned from what went wrong but how we do things right in the future.”

Stenhousemuir chairman Iain McMenemy said “it is vitally important for the good of the game that we try to find solutions that can move matters forward, as opposed to what feels like a constant battle of recriminations”.

He added: “Scottish football faces some big decisions over the next six months. Divided, we will never find solutions to the current crisis that is affecting our game. An independent review that addresses the governance and culture within our game is needed to ensure we are united and focused on delivering solutions that ensure the survival of all clubs through this crisis, so we can move forward in a way where clubs are working together for all of Scottish football, our supporters, and the communities we serve.”

Ultimately the vote fell with Clyde among two clubs abstaining.

Mr McMenemy went on: “We wish to make it absolutely clear that we are not picking sides in the debate, but instead we believe that everyone involved in Scottish football needs to look in the mirror and ask if the culture and governance in our league setup is working as effectively as it should for the benefit of all members?”