PFA Scotland: Francisco Sandaza ‘harshly treated’

Francisco Sandaza: Undergoing appeal after sacking. Picture: SNS

Sandaza was axed by Rangers after a hoax call between the Spaniard and a man purporting to be an agent for the MLS in the US was broadcast online.

The striker, signed from St Johnstone last summer, disclosed confidential details about his contract and indicated a desire to move to the US - revelations which prompted Green to sack Sandaza.

Wishart says that the action taken against the striker was unfair and disproportionate, and also warned that players would be more guarded with fans and the media in future as a result.

“We believe the sanction and punishment was too severe. It was over the top because you have to take into consideration the circumstances.

“I’m hopeful that there will be some sort of resolution, because I do feel Sandaza was harshly treated.

“If it had been a true situation, he was clearly saying (to the caller) that the alleged club would have to pay £500,000 to Rangers for his services. I think we all know they would have grabbed that.

“This will affect players’ dealings with the media because you can be honest and up front, then it appears in the media and is technically a breach of your contract.

“We’ve had recordings of Craig Whyte and Charles Green recently, there are recordings everywhere. It’s a very difficult time.

“Players will just go into their shells and be wary and might then wish to withdraw from public comment.

“The focus should be more on the person who made the call. People say it is a hoax call or a crank call, but they tend to have a bit of humour to them. This had absolutely no humour.” SEE ALSO: Rangers sack Sandaza over hoax call