Francisco Sandaza is expected to pursue legal action over Rangers' decision to dismiss him for breach of contract, but it emerged last night that the striker has yet to contact players' union PFA Scotland to discuss his case.
It was reported yesterday that the Spaniard is to meet with a London-based law firm to begin proceedings over his sacking, which Rangers claimed in a statement was the result of a "material breach of contract". Sandaza had been the victim of a hoax call during which he divulged details of his deal at Ibrox.
He was informed of the move by letter on Wednesday, a document in which the club are required to indicate the details behind their decision. Should a player wish to dispute a dismissal it is established practice to then contact PFA Scotland and arrange a hearing with a Scottish Football League tribunal. Should the league body rule in his favour, the club are entitled to take the case before the Scottish Football Association for appeal.
However, Sandaza – who had spells in Scotland with Dundee United and St Johnstone before decamping to Rangers in the summer – has not yet informed the union of his intentions and it is understood that he only sought membership following advice from senior members of the Rangers squad.
There will be no need for a disciplinary hearing for Chris Hegarty, though, after the Rangers defender yesterday accepted a two-match suspension for stamping on an opponent during the goalless draw with Montrose on Saturday. The Northern Irishman had been given until today to respond to a notice of complaint but has chosen instead to accept the charge.
Hegarty, who has made 27 first-team appearances for the Irn-Bru Third Division champions this season, will now miss both the trip to face Queen's Park at Hampden on Sunday and the home match of Clyde on April 13.
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