With the SFA considering proposals to move away from Hampden by 2020, Mid-Scotland and Fife MSP Murdo Fraser believes that the SFA should move friendly games around the country, including to Perth’s McDiarmid Park.
The Conservative MSP believes that the national team could seize upon Perth’s football fever as a result of their Scottish Cup win and move some friendly games to the ‘Fair City’.
Since 2004 only four home games have been held outside of Glasgow, at Easter Road and Pittodrie respectively, and Murdo believes McDiarmid Park should be added into the rotation.
Commenting Murdo Fraser MSP said:
“After St Johnstone’s Scottish Cup win there is a real appetite for football in the city and I believe the SFA should seize upon this by hosting friendly games at McDiarmid Park.
“The ‘Tartan Army’ are the best football fans in the world and Perth would benefit from the colour and atmosphere they bring. Moving games around the country would also give far more Scots the chance to see their team play and could also help encourage more youngsters into the game.
“If the SFA are concerned about lower attendances as a result of games being played at the 10,673 capacity venue, it is worth remembering that the average attendance for the last four friendly games played outside of Glasgow is 13,314.”