RYAN McGOWAN'S availability for today's league game at Celtic Park - despite being sent off on Wednesday - highlights another weakness in the new disciplinary system which needs to be addressed as soon as possible.

I say ANOTHER because most of us are still trying to get our heads around the fact no action could be taken against Calum Butcher for his part in the trouble at Tannadice nearly a fortnight ago.

The explanation given was that the match officials had already taken action by sending off the wrongly-identified Paul Paton.

Now United have decided to appeal Ryan's red card for the challenge on Liam Henderson. And, because this hearing can't be held before next week, his suspension is put in abeyance, freeing Ryan to play this afternoon.

Even though I believe Ryan was guilty as charged, I am in full agreement with a player having a right of appeal. That is only fair, and it's an important part of any disciplinary process.

But how can some things be fast-tracked, and others not?

Down south, the authorities appear to be able to deal with issues without any delays, which means it is much less likely clubs or players will chance their arm or play the system.

Of course, there is nothing new in people putting in appeals to make sure they are available for a particular game.

Perhaps if there was a genuine risk punishments could be increased if an appeal was found to be without foundation, it would act as a deterrent.

It was only a few years ago a lot of time and effort - involving leading legal figures - was put into reviewing and rewriting the disciplinary rule book.

But it appears some loopholes still need to be closed - and the quicker the better.

Good luck to Kevin Clancy when he referee's today's match. There will be a lot of scrutiny on him because of what has happened in the preceding three games.

But because there is not a trophy on the line, and no-one is going to be knocked out of a competition, I believe this one might not be so pressurised.

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