Football is a game of opinions - so why did the SFA ban BBC's Michael Stewart?

Pundit Michael Stewart has been banned from Scotland's national football stadium [PA Media] Football is a game of opinions, so they say. But when it comes to those who are paid to give their opinions, you'll find they're not always welcomed. In the highly intense world of Scottish football, saying what you think can have repercussions.

But where is the line to be drawn between opinion and unfair accusation? Just ask BBC and Premier Sports pundit, Michael Stewart - and the Scottish Football Association. Stewart's outspoken views on the standard of refereeing in Scotland have resulted in him being told by the SFA that's he's no longer welcome at the national stadium.

The governing body, responsible for the officials, believe his criticism has crossed from opinion into a sustained campaign against referees - to the point, they argue, of questioning their integrity. Stewart banned from Hampden over referee criticism - gossip The BBC has contacted the SFA for comment but it's staying quiet about the ban. It is understood the decision followed complaints from the union representing referees, who have made it clear they have had enough of Stewart's commentary.

The pundit has pushed back strongly. "Instead of trying to silence voices of dissent, the Scottish FA should be engaging with us, answering our questions and explaining their position," he said. "People have every right to disagree with me – and many of them do every day.