McGeady decides against appeal

Aiden McGeady today performed a dramatic u-turn over his bust-up with Celtic boss Gordon Strachan by deciding not to appeal the punishment imposed on him for the incident.

Republic of Ireland midfielder McGeady looked certain to contest the fine and two-week first-team suspension Strachan handed him in the wake of last month's 1-1 Clydesdale Bank Premier League draw with Hearts.

The player's agent, David Holbrook, had slammed the decision, claiming the 22-year-old would lodge an appeal.

That was despite the fact any hearing would have taken place after the ban had been served and would have only led to McGeady - who returned to first-team training last week - recovering the two weeks' wages he was docked.

The time limit in which McGeady could appeal was extended by agreement with Celtic until 9 January, but PFA Scotland today confirmed he had decided not to go down a road that could have caused irreparable damage to his relationship with Strachan.

A statement from the players' union read: 'As per the rights conferred upon him under the terms of his contract of service and also within employment law, Aiden McGeady is entitled to a period during which he may appeal the recent sanctions taken against him by the club.

'He has used this time in the proper way which has allowed him to take due consideration to all the facts and circumstances regarding the matter. After lengthy discussions with his family and advisors, Aiden has decided not to appeal the penalties imposed upon him by Celtic FC.

'It is his wish that this brings this matter to a conclusion and he reiterates that his desire as always is simply to get back playing football for Celtic FC.'

PFA Scotland chief executive Fraser Wishart said: 'Aiden McGeady has conducted himself throughout this situation in a thoughtful, measured and mature manner.

'Aiden has rightly taken time to consider his position and will continue to have the full support of PFA Scotland.'

McGeady's days as a Celtic player appeared to be numbered following the 13 December bust-up, which was not the first time he was reported to have fallen out with his manager this season.

But the decision to ban his star player was nevertheless a brave one by Strachan, who was gambling on his side being able to win games at Falkirk and arch-rivals Rangers over the Christmas period.

Two victories solidified his position, while McGeady's decision to appeal made it difficult to envisage how the two men could continue to work together at the same club.

A January sale looked to be on the cards but today's development suggests the player may yet have a future at Parkhead.