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Daily Record
Daily Record
National
Stuart Wilson

Ayr United support continuing Championship season after SFA chief Ian Maxwell offers suspension of league

Ayr United insist they are happy to continue with the Championship season, after clubs were canvassed for their opinion on the matter.

SFA chief executive, Ian Maxwell, wrote to all 10 teams in the second tier to offer a suspension of the league.

It followed an interview with Inverness boss John Robertson last week, which cited the growing pressures of dealing with Covid restrictions.

But Caley and a host of other Championship clubs have since stated their willingness to play on.

And new Ayr owner David Smith agrees with the sentiment that the league should continue if at all possible.

He told the Ayrshire Post: "As long as the situation remains as it is with the Scottish Government and SPFL, we're happy to keep playing.

"Until such times as it becomes unsafe, I think it's important we continue.

"The players are keen to play and as a club that's definitely our stance."

SFA chief Ian Maxwell wrote to clubs offering to call a halt (SNS Group / SFA)

Following his consultation with clubs, Maxwell hinted strongly that the earlier words of Robertson had sparked his concern.

He said: "One interview in the media prompted a wide-ranging discussion at the Joint Response Group meeting on the ongoing impact of the virus.

"Specifically to those who continue to play and coach within the elite sporting exemption afforded to football.

"Given the need for the Championship clubs to undertake a considerable testing regime in order to continue, there was a strong view that Championship clubs should be asked to confirm or otherwise their willingness to play on during the initial three-week suspension."

Maxwell said the intention was "intended to demonstrate our willingness to listen and be responsive".

All Scottish football below the top two tiers has been suspended for a minimum of three weeks because of the growing spread of Covid-19.

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