PFA Scotland are 'surprised and disappointed' that the SFA Compliance Officer has challenged the betting ban handed to Rangers star Steve Simonsen.

The keeper was hit with a one match suspension, with a further one game suspended until the end of the campaign, after being found guilty of breaching gambling guidelines last month.

After sitting out the Championship clash with Hibernian, the 35-year-old has lost his place in the Gers line-up to Lee Robinson.

Compliance Officer Tony McGlennan has appealed the ban, claiming it is 'too lenient' but the Union have questioned that call and stated the Simonsen's reputation 'is in danger of being further damaged'.

A PFA spokesperson said: "Mr Simonsen requested that the SFA publish the full Written Reasons of the Panel in the interests of transparency. Regrettably they have, thus far, declined to do so.

"It is important, however, to clarify Mr Simonsen is of good character and has an excellent reputation within the game of football gained from his professionalism throughout his long career.

"The Judicial Panel correctly considered all of the mitigation led on his behalf by PFA Scotland lawyer Liam O'Donnell.

"Regrettably, we are precluded by SFA rules from outlining the significant mitigation and from explaining the Judicial Panel's Findings.

"As a consequence of the initial two game suspension (one match served-one match suspended), Mr Simonsen has lost his place in the Rangers first team, which may well have a material impact on his ability to gain a further contract with Rangers or another club. In our opinion, he has suffered enough already.

"We are of the opinion that given the evidence and witness statements put before it, the original Judicial Panel came to a fair decision and PFA Scotland will rigorously defend Mr Simonsen at the Appeal Hearing."