Scottish football’s “power imbalance” with young players has been slated by MSPs in a robust Holyrood report. But you wouldn’t know it from the response.
The SFA and SPFL were taken to task 10 years after concerns were raised.
An astonishing amount of time has gone into reports and sessions on how youngsters are registered, what contracts can mean, how much they’re paid, and if their rights are being protected.
In 2017, Holyrood seemed to send a clear warning that self-regulation isn’t cutting it. Three years on, the conclusion was unequivocal: “Time is up.”
Faced with this warning, the SFA and SPFL dug deep to welcome in the conclusions.
Yes, some progress has been made. Of course, no one wants anything but the best for young players. Obviously, steps have been taken to oversee any concerns.
Even if the SFA believes it has done all it was asked to do, it’s clear some influential politicians think otherwise.
The frustration among MSPs who spent years on this probe was palpable in what would otherwise be another relatively dry official report. Failure to act swiftly can only inflame the situation.
That would do nothing for the welfare of the young players who need protection.
Bitten by criticism
Anyone with dental problems will know only too well what it’s been like to be refused treatment during lockdown.
Dentists have been unable to operate, just like all the other businesses ordered to shut their doors over health fears.
Today, emergency work is supposed to be back on offer. But not all will be opening, and dental leaders are furious.
The Scottish Dental Practice Owners group says there are hurdles in the way, mountains of red tape to get through and big problems for patients.
In a damning verdict, the Scottish Government was accused of favouring private treatment, despite the SNP’s position on public health care.
Trying to make sense of the route map is like pulling teeth.
