Dundee plan appeal

01 November 2010 20:00

Dundee administrator Bryan Jackson has accused the Scottish Football League of threatening the club's future after they were hit with a deduction of 25 points.

Jackson immediately vowed to appeal against what he called the SFL board's "outrageous" punishment for going into administration for the second time in seven years.

Dundee were instantly transported to bottom spot in the Irn-Bru First Division, 20 points behind nearest rivals Morton. They have also been hit with a transfer embargo until they exit administration, and face the possibility of further sanctions if they do not achieve that goal by March 31.

But Jackson has issued a stark warning that they may not get that far. The administrator estimated Dundee had a 50% chance of survival after making nine players and manager Gordon Chisholm redundant on October 15.

Dundee went into administration after being unable to pay a tax bill which then stood at £420,000 and Jackson warned there was only enough money to continue trading until Christmas.

He has been encouraged by the response of the Dundee fans since then but he now believes the club's future is under serious threat.

Jackson said: "I shall be appealing this decision by the SFL as I think that this is an outrageous punishment for the club.

"With almost guaranteed demotion from the First Division it will be much more difficult to attract investment or retain players. This could also ultimately affect the income of other First Division teams as we will be unable to attract a good away support if there is nothing to play for.

"Given that the club is fulfilling its fixtures with a credible team this seems a punitive and punishing blow which threatens the future existence of the club.

"Everyone involved at DFC is working hard to ensure that the club survives this administration but this penalty makes that situation much more difficult."

Source: PA