Falkirk say sorry to Dundee United over Sibald announcement

Falkirk have apologized to Dundee United over the manner in which the pre-contract signing of Craig Sibbald was announced, according to the Tannadice club.

Sibbald has agreed to return to his boyhood club in the summer when his United contract expires, with a three-year deal.

The 30-year-old spent the first seven years of his professional career with Falkirk before moving to Livingston, then moving to Tannadice in 2022.

Falkirk’s announcement of the midfielder’s return to the club includes pictures of him signing a deal and designing a Burns scarf.

United say Falkirk has since been in contact to apologize for the images, which angered some fans.

A brief statement from United read: “Dundee United is aware of the announcement made by Falkirk FC yesterday regarding a pre-contract agreement with one of our players, which included images that were inappropriate in the circumstances.”

“We have since received a formal apology from Falkirk, which we have accepted. While we are disappointed at the way the situation was handled, we now consider the matter to be over.”

After the deal was agreed, Sibbald told Falkirk FC media: “I’m very proud to be back home where it all started.

“This club means everything to me and I’m delighted to sign a contract to return to my childhood club that I grew up supporting. I can’t wait to pull on a Falkirk shirt again and give everything I can to get the badge.

“The opportunity to return at this stage of my career feels right and I can’t wait to get started next season.

“Once a Bern, always a Bern.”