St Johnstone’s Cammy MacPherson apologises for sharing controversial video

St Johnstone midfielder Cammy MacPherson has apologised to supporters for reposting a video by far-right activist Tommy Robinson.

Saints have confirmed the 25-year-old faces disciplinary action for sharing a controversial video documentary by the former English Defence League leader, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, on social media.

The former St Mirren player subsequently cancelled the repost, but – at a time when towns and cities across England and Northern Ireland have been plagued by violent unrest involving far-right groups – MacPherson’s actions angered many of his club’s supporters.

New St Johnstone majority shareholder Adam Webb addressed the situation in an open letter to fans on the club’s website, which was followed by MacPherson’s apology.

Webb said: “The recent actions of Cammy MacPherson violated standard provisions in all player contracts and St Johnstone’s rules of conduct to which all players must agree. Such actions are not acceptable and will not be tolerated. Cammy is subject to disciplinary action pursuant to these policies.

“We have reminded all players of our rules of conduct and we have strengthened the rules further to ensure that no player is empowered to distract the club and antagonise any of our supporters, whether or not such offence is intentional.”

MacPherson vowed to learn from the incident.

“I would like to start by apologising for reposting a film that appeared on my X account,” he said in a statement on the club’s website. “I have shown poor judgement without considering the club’s code of conduct.

“Upon reflection, and my own further research, I fully understand why people have been so upset and angry regarding this situation.

“I have the greatest respect for St Johnstone FC, for my team-mates and for our supporters. I know the club is and always will be a club for everyone. A club and an environment where I am immensely proud to be involved.

“I’d like to thank my team-mates and family for their unwavering support for me in what has been a challenging time this past week.

“I have now fully understood the impact of my actions and I am committed to learning from this experience.”

Webb asked fans to move on from the episode after hearing the player’s explanation.

“This was an unintentional lapse of judgment and not an intentional effort to harm or disparage anyone,” the American said.

“I can assure you Cammy understands and agrees that this is a club that is open to all. His contrition is real and he has learned a valuable lesson. But we must not let ourselves get carried away; a young man’s life and career are at stake.

“I apologise to all Saints fans for this distraction. We have important work to do, on the pitch and off. We must work together or we have no chance.”