ST MIRREN boss Gus MacPherson reckons the SPL should have called off every top-flight game - not just those involving the Old Firm - ahead of Scotland's Euro 2008 decider against Italy.
The Buddies gaffer believes that would have given the national team the best chance of reaching the finals, rather than just his side's match against Rangers and Falkirk's trip to Celtic being postponed.
MacPherson, left, said: "We'd do anything to support the national team but the decision wasn't ours.
"If it helps the national team qualify that's great but I think it would have been more sensible to cancel the whole of the SPL fixtures.
"Someone like Barry Robson or Scott Severin could pick up an injury, you just don't know what will happen.
"I think it would have made more sense - let everyone get behind the national team by cancelling all the games."
Saints have come in for criticism from some quarters for playing negatively this season but MacPherson said: "It's simple - when the opposition are better than you you have to defend.
"Teams at every level will get five players into midfield when they lose possession. Manchester United use it - granted it's with a different quality of player.
"I do what I feel is right for certain games, whether it's a 4-4-2 or 4-3-3. In order to compete at every level you have to play to your strengths.
"Systems and tactics mean very little because you're relying on individuals to do their job.
"We've spoken to the players about how tough it is in this league, sometimes the lads who have joined us need reminding.
"We need to make sure they are competing and giving their best and they're doing that. They're working extremely hard."
