Angelo Massone sidesteps thorny issue of Dorrans cash

Mar 4 2010 by Eric MacKinnon, West Lothian Courier

Angelo Massone sidesteps thorny issue of Dorrans cash

FORMER Livingston chairman Angelo Massone has distanced himself from any blame in potentially costing the Lions a £1million-plus windfall from sought-after ex-Almondvale ace Graham Dorrans.

The controversial Italian is known to have cashed in an agreed 20-per-cent sell-on clause for Scotland star Dorrans for a one-off payment of £50,000 from West Bromwich Albion.

And with Barclays Premier League big-spenders Manchester City heading a host of clubs pondering a £6m bid for the 22-year-old, Massone’s actions could end up denying the Lions a whopping £1.2m windfall.

When contacted by the Courier, the former Livi owner refused to discuss the situation.

“This is not my problem now – Dorrans was sold by Pearse Flynn.

“I think you must speak with the current Livingston board regarding this.

When pressed further and asked directly on cashing in the clause, Massone insisted: “I’m out. I’m out regarding all agreements regarding Graham Dorrans.

“I think it is better that you speak to the new board.”

Dorrans, who won his third international cap for Scotland in Wednesday night's friendly at Hampden with the Czech Republic, was watched by City scouts in West Brom’s 2-0 win over Scunthorpe last month.

The former Livingston ace has also shot to the top of the summer shopping lists of Aston Villa, Everton, Sunderland, Stoke and Birmingham.