Fixture Row Hits Scottish Football
The Scottish Football Association and Scottish Premier League have come into conflict over the fixture schedule after the SFA requested a free weekend before the World Cup qualifier against Norway.
Previously, the SFA had reportedly wanted the season to start on 1st August, which would give Scotland-based players the opportunity to play two matches prior to the match against Norway on 12th August.
However, Scotland manager George Burley has now stated that he wants a free weekend before the match, claiming it would allow more preparation time for his players and boost their World Cup chances.
Reportedly, the fixture-change request to the SPL has not been answered, which has angered Burley. However, the SPL has claimed that the SFA’s reasons for postponing the start to the season have not been made clear, and that discussions around the issue will commence following the meeting alter this week.
Scotland has four points from three qualifying matches, which is five points behind group leaders the Netherlands. Only the top team is guaranteed a place at the World Cup finals in South Africa.
