Jim Jefferies has been placed in a difficult position following the board's decision to back Craig Thomson after the player pled guilty to lewd, libidinous and indecent behaviour towards two under-age girls. The decision not to sack the young player has caused outrage with fans and children's charities slamming owner Vladimir Romanov. Jefferies had no say in the matter and Thomson will be in the squad when the new season begins. However, Jefferies has told Thomson that he may not get a game next season. The manager is fully aware of the furore surrounding the Scotland Under-21 international and has hinted that he may opt to sideline him on a permanent basis.
Jefferies said: "I knew what the reaction would be and he can't have any complaints because it was a bad, bad thing he did. One of the worst things it's possible to do. He has made a grave error. It gives us a situation. We have to make sure if he ever gets back in the team - and let's not forget there's competition for places - how would he handle what's coming to him. We have to be sure because at the end of the day that's going to affect the performance of the rest of the players. We can't allow it to become a bit of a sideshow which gets out of hand. I think he would be going into something he has never been prepared for. He might find it will be tough for him from now on. But the board have made their decision regarding the matter. It's not an ideal situation."