RAITH Rovers’ majority shareholder John Sim admits the Kirkcaldy club will be hit in the pocket by Hamburg’s relegation as defender David Bates prepares to complete his switch from Rangers.

The 21-year-old, who started his career at Rovers in 2013 and spent three seasons there before joining Rangers in 2017, has agreed a four-year deal with the German side. 

Nevertheless, due to his age, Hamburg are liable to pay a fee under FIFA guidelines.

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But when Hamburg were relegated to Bundesliga 2. for the first time last weekend, it is understood they ceased to be a ‘Category 4’ club in the eyes of UEFA, and became a ‘Category 2’ outfit.

That reduces the development fee they are obliged to pay Rangers, and, subsequently, what Raith receive. 

“David [Bates] has gone on to bigger and greater things,” said Sim. “And we are potentially going to see a good return; touch wood.

“But I can say, we were all very disappointed when Hamburg were relegated because that is going to have a financial knock-on effect to Raith Rovers to what we would hope to get from that move.”