It is a massive conflict of interests. I'd assumed when taking the role of chairman that Laird had stepped away from agency work. Acting as a consultant to the board was an excellent set-up, whereby the club gained footballing expertise and contacts, with no votes being cast by someone who has skin in the game other than the best interests of Greenock Morton. I'm not suggesting that the chairman has, or indeed ever will, act or vote in anything other than the best interests of the club, but this blurring of lines is unacceptable and sets a precedent that could easily be abused in the future.
The idea that the person with the deciding vote in the boardroom, and who acts as a figurehead of the club, has the potential to behave as a lobbyist on behalf of certain players and managers is a clear conflict of interests. I know the restrictions surrounding agents are far less restrictive than they are for players and coaches, but the idea of John Laird the chairman negotiating a deal with John Laird the agent for the services of a player such as Lewis Strapp is ludicrous.
I know that Laird also represents Michael Tidser, so I can't wait to see him heavily linked with the managerial vacancy once Imrie moves on. I'd like to see this position clarified by MCT or the club immediately.