After his short but sweet spell as Celtic manager, there was intense media speculation that John Kennedy would pack his bags and make his way up to Ross County to become the Staggies manager. However, less than twelve hours after said speculation was published, the Highland side had already appointed a manager that fans seem to have revolted against.
Former Celtic defender Malky Mackay has been controversially been appointed manager of the Global Energy Stadium side – his first job in six years following a stint at Wigan Athletic. Mackay has a decent CV behind him in all fairness; winning the English Championship in 2012/13 with Cardiff City, he brings a respectable honour to the table.
Born in Bellshill, former Hoops’ defender Mackay made 34 league appearances for Celtic, scoring 4 league goals along the way to stopping theRangers’ 10 in a row.
However, it isn’t his managerial prowess that has fans seething. Mackay has been quoted in the past as using derogatory terms, with evidence on Twitter citing racist, sexist and homophobic terms on numerous counts – something which Staggies’ fans are clearly upset about.
We’re strongly AGAINST the reported appointment of Malky MacKay.
He should be nowhere near the game with the views he holds towards other human beings and we’ll protest against this appointment in any way we can.
You’re not welcome here.
— Staggies View (@staggiesview) May 25, 2021
I love Ross County Football Club with everything that I am. I mean it. This club means everything to me.
I won’t be able to do anything associated with my beloved Staggies if he’s manager. The kind of hatred MacKay brings is heartbreaking, infuriating and unacceptable. https://t.co/72Zx3V4rv7
— Ramsay Banks 🦌 (@Ramsay_SV) May 25, 2021
If Malky McKay is appointed manager of @RossCounty I will not give the club any money in the form of tickets, staggie army or merchandise or anything else.
County you want to ensure fans and club are united. This appointment would not do it.
He is not welcome at our club!
— Michael (@HighlandStaggie) May 25, 2021
Racism in Scottish football has come under intense media scrutiny over the last few months following the abuse suffered by theRangers’ Glen Kamara against Slavia Prague; let’s hope the SPFL do something about this abhorrent appointment, setting the blueprint for the future and ultimately giving Kennedy take the role he rightfully deserves.
