Sport

Strachan claims Under-21 rule keeps him in stand

McGeady has an age-old problem

By Danny Stewart

GORDON STRACHAN last night claimed Aiden McGeady (right) was a victim of the SPL’s Under-21 rule.

The Celtic star returned to training after serving a fortnight’s suspension for his dressing-room bust-up with the manager.

But while available for selection yesterday, he was completely left out for the game against Dundee United.

And, in the Republic of Ireland’s internationalist’s absence, the champions dropped two precious points.

Settle

Two goals up against Craig Levein’s Tangerines with an hour gone, they were forced to settle for the draw which gave Rangers a glimmer of hope at the top of the table.

Having witnessed that setback, Strachan was willing to discuss McGeady’s omission — a topic he had blanked pre-match.

“The reasons that Aiden didn’t feature today were, firstly, I stayed faithful to the squad who had done well in his absence,” said the Hoops boss.

“Secondly, everyone knows about the Under-21 rule and that had an effect again.

Complained

“We have complained and complained about it, but nothing has changed.”

The rule insists that SPL clubs include two players under the age of 21 in their match-day squads. That, though, didn’t explain why Koki Mizuno, off form against Rangers, was preferred to McGeady.

The man at the centre of the story watched Mizuno and Co. fail to beat United from the comfort of one of Celtic Park’s hospitality boxes.

His presence there lent weight to suspicions that, as a result of his insubordination, he may never play for Celtic again.

German giants Bayern Munich are known admirers of his ability and a bid of around Ł8 million while the transfer window is open would doubtless see him depart. 

Certainly his team-mates are unable to shed any light on the matter.

Future

“I don’t know what Aiden’s future will hold,” said Giorgios Samaras, scorer of both Celtic goals.
“He trained with us on Tuesday and he looked fit. The decision about whether he plays or what happens is one for the gaffer.”

Gary Caldwell, meanwhile, has said what happens in his own future is up to Celtic.

The Hoops want their defender to sign an extension to his contract, which still has 18 months to run.

But he says that won’t be happening unless more favourable terms are forthcoming.

“The ball is in their court,” he said. “An offer was made at the start of the season and we’ve spoken since then.

“I still have a year-and-a-half to go and the club’s well within their rights to wait.

“We will see what happens.”

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