Ian Maxwell and the SFA have some serious questions to answer after Ryan Christie and Kieran Tierney were forced into 14 days of self-isolation.
At the start of this week Celtic and Arsenal provided the SFA with players for a ridiculous schedule of three international matches over eight days.
Without kicking a ball in earnest Christie and Tierney will have to self-isolate after Stuart Armstrong returned a positive test.
Last month Maxwell went to great length to explain the stringent measures that the SFA had brought in to ensure the safety of Scotland players at a time when the Czech FA had to find a whole new squad and management team to face Scotland. The measures were so intense that Maxwell and President Rod Petrie opted out of the trip.
‘Duty of care’ is a common phrase these days, that is exactly what the SFA have with all of the players that they borrow from clubs. In mid-afternoon Celtic were informed that Christie won’t be available to train or play over the next 14 days.
Showing the evasiveness that is his trademark Maxwell told the SFA website:
We were made aware of the positive test this morning and I reiterate Steve’s view that the health and safety of those involved is paramount. We will maintain constant dialogue with Dr John MacLean to ensure that those who are required to self-isolate are given the full support of the Scottish FA in conjunction with their clubs.
Equally, the protocols and procedures in place are designed to ensure that the remaining members of the squad – who have all returned two rounds of negative tests – can continue to prepare for the forthcoming matches in a safe and secure environment.
Since June Celtic have looked after Christie through trips to France, Latvia and Sarajevo, he has been tested regularly and remained within the Celtic bio-bubble.
Out of all of the Scotland players why did Christie and Tierney have closer contact with Armstrong than other squad members?
With Callum McGregor and Greg Taylor currently under the care of Maxwell many Celtic fans will feel that both players should be withdrawn to avoid a repeat of whatever happened with Christie.
Celtic physio Tim Williamson and goalkeeping coach Stevie Woods are also in the care of the SFA until next Thursday.
