Police called in after SFA panel receive threats

Poilce have been called into Hampden to deal with threats issued against the men responsible for hitting Rangers with a one-year transfer ban.

The entire judicial panel system has been thrown into turmoil after one of the volunteers ‘outed’ by internet thugs was pushed to the brink of resignation.

Rangers manager Ally McCoist this week demanded that the SFA name the individuals who sat in judgment on  the Ibrox club, which has since resulted in the identities of all three being published on message boards and via social network sites.

All three panel members, as well as directors of the SFA, have now reported receiving abusive and threatening  communications – serious enough to merit action by Strathclyde Police.

An SFA spokesperson, pointing the finger firmly at whoever leaked the identities said: ‘We are deeply concerned that the safety and security of Judicial Panel members appointed to a recent Tribunal has been compromised by a wholly  irresponsible betrayal of  confidential information.

‘The Judicial Panel consists of volunteers from across  the spectrum of sport and  business in Scotland. They are appointed on the basis of anonymity, yet all three panel members have reported  intrusion into their lives, including abusive and  threatening communication.

‘This has been extended to directors of the Scottish FA. It culminated tonight in a  visit by police, who are taking seriously the threats made.’

It is understood that one of the three is considering his position and has revealed he has received advice from Special Branch regarding suspect packages.

The individual also released a statement saying: ‘I can’t discuss anything about the case for reasons of confidentiality.

‘I hope that, when the  statement of reasons  is published by the SFA, responsible people will  understand the reasons for the decision.

‘I have no axe to grind with any football club.’

Meanwhile, former Rangers owner Sir David Murray’s company has been ordered to hand over all paperwork relating to the takeover by Craig Whyte.

Administrators Duff & Phelps are suing legal firm Collyer Bristow for £25million over their handling of the buy-out and the Court of  Session has been told Murray will provide all e-mails, faxes, file notes concerning the deal.