Taylor concerned over Setanta TV deal collapse

Jun 25 2009 by Andrew McGilvray, Hamilton Advertiser

HAMILTON first-team coach Stuart Taylor admits the lack of a TV deal for the SPL is concerning but insists he and boss Billy Reid will get on with the job regardless of the budget they’re dealt.

Setanta went into administration this week having lost the rights to both the SPL and English Premiership, and league bosses are reportedly in negotiations with Sky and ESPN over a ‘rescue package’.

Taylor said it’s a situation that will affect clubs, but added: “That’s down to the financial side of things and the chairman and directors will deal with that.

“We’re all waiting to see what happens because obviously that would affect our budget.

“Everyone across the board hopes something can be sorted out, but whatever budget we’re given we’ll deal with.

“At the end of the day we’ve got a good squad here already and yes, of course we want to bring players in, but that depends on our budget.

“Everyone knows all about the three diamonds and how well they’ve come on in the last few years – their progress has been staggering and we hope they can improve on that next season.

“It’s not just the club they’re improving, but the players round about them and that works both ways, with guys like Mark McLaughlin and Martin Canning helping everybody through. The two of them are unsung heroes because they make a huge difference not just out on the pitch but in the dressing room as well.”

Taylor says the club hopes goalkeeper Tomas Cerny returns for next season, but it’s out of their hands for the moment.

He explained: “The manager has spoken to Tomas Cerny a few times and spoken about various things with him.

“There are one or two things that need to be clarified but as far as we’re concerned we’ve done our bit.”

A deal to bring defender Trent McClenahan back to the club isn’t dead yet either, and Taylor is still hopeful.

He said: “Trent is in rehab in Australia and is feeling stronger all the time. There are clubs who are interested in him and that isn’t surprising, but both myself and Billy have been in touch with him in the last few weeks.

“I hope it isn’t dead in the water, and I know for a fact that Trent is keen and interested in coming back because of how much he enjoyed it here last season.

“There has been no contact in that regard, but we will talk before the end of June and I hope something can be sorted out.”

Taylor says the current squad are eager to get back into training, but are enjoying a well-earned break abroad.

He said: “In the last two years it’s been pretty much solid for the boys and it’s important to get away for a break to recharge yourself both mentally and physically.

“They’re in here near enough every day and there are obvious pressures of the league and getting results, and it’s good to get a break away from that environment.

“It’s been great because a few of them have been in touch to see if anything is happening yet and looking to get back in a bit earlier, so that’s always a good sign.”