THE SPFL are understood to have launched an investigation into former Morton manager Ray McKinnon’s move to Falkirk.

It is believed that Morton have contacted the governing body regarding Falkirk’s conduct with regard to the controversial appointment.

The Tele understands the Greenock club have raised the matter with league chiefs as they look to potentially pursue legal action about McKinnon’s move and that of former first team coach Darren Taylor.

Ton chairman Crawford Rae has spoken out previously about the Bairns’ capture of their former manager and assistant, saying the pair had breached their contracts by moving to the fellow Championship side, after Morton rejected their resignations.

It is understood former head of performance Graeme Henderson is also on his way to the Falkirk Stadium after resigning from his post earlier this month.

Falkirk insist that they have acted properly at all times.

In a statement made on their website last night, the club said: “We sought permission from Morton to speak to their manager. 

“During these discussions Ray made clear his desire to join Falkirk and, after discussions with a number of candidates, he was the outstanding choice. 

“We appreciate Morton would have preferred to keep their manager, however, we followed appropriate procedures at all times.”

Ton are staying tight lipped on the dispute.

A Morton spokesperson said: “Whilst we are taking steps to resolve this matter, we are unable to comment any further at this stage.”

At the time when Falkirk asked to speak to McKinnon, Rae allowed them permission but asked for a six-figure sum if they were to sign the pair from the Ton.

The former Dundee United boss was only appointed as Jim Duffy’s replacement this summer, and left after just three months at Cappielow.

Back on Friday, August 31, McKinnon left training as normal at around 1pm, after final preparations to take on Partick Thistle the next day.

But just hours later rumours began circulating the 48-year-old had gone to meet Falkirk chiefs that same afternoon straight after training at Parklea — and by the evening he was confirmed as the Bairns boss on a two-year contract.

Rae spoke previously to the Tele saying: “When Falkirk asked to speak with Ray I told Falkirk that Ray was contracted to Morton, we were delighted with the progress that had been made and that we would only give permission if they came back to us with a six figure sum.

“I was told that this would be put to the Falkirk board and that they would get back to me. It appears from the press that Ray and Darren have signed new contracts with Falkirk FC, we believe that Mr McKinnon and Mr Taylor have acted and continue to act in breach of contract by entering into this new agreement.”

The case is likely to take weeks, if not months, to resolve.
The SPFL refused to comment when the Tele approached them yesterday.