Lines crossed

YOU report (2 April) that Celtic player Leigh Griffiths is to be charged by the SFA under rule 86 and faces a two-match ban. This young man is a Hibernian fan and surely has the same right of freedom of speech as the rest of society, as long as there is no racism or sectarianism involved, particularly when the alleged breach of rules happened on his day off.

He may have mocked Hearts’ financial position – though I am sure Hearts fans have heard worst – but this is hardly offensive compared to some of the comments voiced at football matches.

It seems to me freedom of speech is at issue here. Questions must also be asked as to where the jurisdiction of the SFA begins and ends when it comes to off-field conduct.

Ian Murray

Broomhall Loan

Edinburgh