Scottish FA launch mental health slur probe after Albion Rovers star leaves stadium mid-match

The Scottish FA have launched an investigation after Albion Rovers striker David Cox left the stadium mid-match claiming he had been taunted about his mental health by an opponent.

Stenhousemuir defender Jonathan Tiffoney strongly rejects allegations he mocked Cox, who has previously opened up about his struggles, including an attempt to take his own life.

Tiffoney will ‘take a leave of absence’ until the probe is complete and his club Stenhousemuir have asked the SFA’s compliance officer to investigate. 

Albion Rovers striker David Cox announced he has quit football after allegedly being taunted over his mental health

Scottish FA have launched an investigation into the alleged taunting from Jonathan Tiffoney

‘Serious allegations have been made and they must be fully and robustly investigated,’ they said in a statement.

Cox, who was an unused substitute for Albion, left the ground during Thursday’s League Two match.

He claimed later that a member of Stenhousemuir’s team ‘had a go at my mental health’, adding: ‘He told me I should have done it right the first time.’

Tiffoney labelled the allegation ‘simply untrue’ and insisted he had been ‘subjected to abuse and disparaging comments from the Albion Rovers dugout.’

Stenhousemuir defender Jonathan Tiffoney strongly rejects allegations but has taken leave 

Tiffoney added: ‘Had I made the comment which it has been said I made, then it is inconceivable that it would have not been heard by the linesman.

‘Having been personally subjected to disparaging and hurtful remarks as a player for many years, I condemn any such practices.

‘I would never attack another player’s mental health or wellbeing and will fully cooperate with the Scottish FA investigation into this matter.’

Albion Rovers backed Cox in a statement, saying he had their ‘unconditional’ backing