THE Scottish Football Association has judged that Craig Whyte, the Rangers owner, "is not a fit and proper person to hold a position within association football", writes Hugh MacDonald.
Rangers also face a charge of bringing the game into disrepute.
The findings of the independent inquiry will now be referred to the judicial panel. Penalties for the club range from a warning up to suspension of membership. The investigation, ordered on February 17, three days after Rangers went into administration, was headed by Lord William Nimmo Smith.
Stewart Regan, chief executive of the SFA, said yesterday: "Principally, it is the belief of the board, taking into account the prima facie evidence presented today, that Mr Craig Whyte is not considered to be a fit and proper person to hold a position within association football. We will be writing to Mr Whyte in relation to those findings and shall seek a response within seven days.'' He said there were other ''potential rule breaches'' but the report would not be published ''at this time''.
Regan added: "Nevertheless, I can confirm that the club is facing a charge of bringing the game into disrepute.''
Paul Clark, Rangers joint administrator, said: "We look forward to stating the club's case to the judicial panel. In broad terms, we believe there are mitigating factors and we hope to demonstrate the distinction between the club and the actions of any individuals."
A spokesman for Whyte said: "The SFA has indicated it will be writing to Mr Whyte within seven days. Until that happens and he has had an opportunity to consider Lord Nimmo Smith's findings, it would be premature to make any comment."
On Monday, the Scottish Premier League launched an investigation into allegations that Rangers made undisclosed payments to players during the Sir David Murray era.
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