SFA hand Aleksandar Tonev notice of complaint

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

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.

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.”