SFA hand Aleksandar Tonev notice of complaint

THE SCOTTISH FA has handed a notice of complaint to Aleksandar Tonev over allegations that he racially abused Shay Logan during Celtic’s game against Aberdeen last Saturday.

Tonev faces a maximum suspension of 16 games. Picture: SNS

Vincent Lunny, the SFA compliance officer, wrote to both clubs to gather information and has decided the 24-year-old Celtic winger has a case to answer.

Tonev denied the accusation, but has been charged over an alleged breach of disciplinary Rule 202: Excessive Misconduct by the use of offensive, insulting and abusive language of a racist nature.

Tonev who is on a season-long loan from Aston Villa faces a maximum suspension of 16 games if found guilty.

Aberdeen stated their “unconditional support” for English full-back Logan as they await the outcome, but Celtic manager Ronny Deila publicly backed Tonev earlier this week, declaring he has no doubts the 24-year-old did not make the comments Logan has accused him of making.

The Bulgarian international has until September 26 to respond to the charge with a principal hearing date set for Thursday, October 9.

“I know he didn’t do it,” said Deila. “The club made a statement [saying they had spoken to Tonev who denied the allegation] and I trust my players.

“He is an honest player and I believe in what he is saying. We have not wasted any energy on that at all. He seems very comfortable.”