SFA ban reporter from car park for Celtic semi-final in ‘deeply disappointing’ escalation

Michael Stewart’s ban from Hampden Park was extended to the car park for Sunday’s Scottish Cup semi-final.

The Premier Sports pundit had been denied access to the stadium for Dunfermline’s win over Falkirk on Saturday.

ProSports

However, he remained part of the live TV coverage by appearing on air from a van in the car park.

Stewart had been banned from the ground due to comments made about officials this season.

Speaking to presenter Emma Dodds on Saturday, Stewart explained: “I’ve been banished to the car park here. Which is not quite as salubrious as inside the stadium.

“But I am very grateful for the support that from you guys, the broadcasters and many people who have got in touch with me. It genuinely means a lot.

“It’s a bit of a farcical situation that a supposed association have got themselves into here. But I am looking forward to watching what should be a cracking game this afternoon.”

Premier Sports had planned for Stewart to remain part of their coverage on Sunday as Celtic faced St. Mirren.

It was confirmed on Saturday night, though, that he would not be able to broadcast from the stadium car park.

Premier Sports statement

A statement from the broadcaster read: “Following today’s Scottish Cup semi-final, where Michael Stewart was unable to broadcast from inside Hampden and instead contributed from our production truck, we have now been informed by the SFA that he is also banned from the stadium car park.

“This further escalation is deeply disappointing and has left Premier Sports, the SFA’s broadcast partner, scrambling to find solutions for our exclusive coverage of Celtic v St Mirren tomorrow.

“We also wish to reiterate our full support for Michael Stewart as a valued member of our team, and we will continue to seek alternative ways to ensure he can remain involved in our coverage of matches from Hampden.”

Premier Sports

Stewart has worked as a pundit since retiring from professional football in 2011.

The former Scotland midfielder had spells with Manchester United, Hearts, Hibernian and Charlton Athletic as a player.

His appearance from the car park on Saturday came before Dunfermline’s victory over Falkirk.

Neil Lennon’s side won on penalties following a 0-0 draw between the two sides.

The Pars, who are in the Scottish Championship, will face Celtic in the final next month.

Celtic needed extra-time to beat St. Mirren on Sunday after a second half fight back from their opponents.

PA

Despite leading 2-0 at half-time, Celtic were pegged back after the break as Mikael Mandron scored twice, including a 91st minute equaliser.

The record 42-time winners responded in emphatic fashion, though, scoring four goals in six minutes during extra-time to win 6-2.

Celtic will now return to Hampden Park to face Dunfermline in the final on Saturday, May 23.

It will be Dunfermline’s first appearance in the Scottish Cup final since losing to Celtic back in 2007.