An SNP MSP has urged the Scottish Football Association (SFA) to launch an inquiry into child abuse in the sport.

James Dornan, who convenes Holyrood's education committee, has written to organisation's chief executive Stewart Regan to take "urgent action" over the matter.

In recent weeks, several former youth footballers have alleged they were abused while playing for amateur and professional football clubs in Scotland.

Dornan said: "The allegations of abuse in Scottish football should be treated seriously and the SFA clearly has a duty - as the governing body of our national sport - to launch a full and thorough inquiry into these deeply troubling revelations.

"It is, of course, important that any allegations are thoroughly and properly investigated by the police and that anyone found to have perpetrated such abuses is brought to justice.

"But it is also incumbent upon the SFA to show leadership - to dig their heels is simply not an option."

He added: "They have to send a clear message that abuse in football will never be tolerated and take steps to address any shortcomings which might still remain in football clubs across Scotland to this day.

"It's important that any inquiry is conducted openly and with transparency.

"I look forward to getting a clear an unequivocal commitment from the SFA that they will do the right thing by the victims of these sickening allegations - and the right thing for a sport which so many people throughout Scotland enjoy."

Regan issued an apology on Monday to Peter Haynes, who publicly disclosed he was abused as a child by an SFA official.

On Thursday, the First Minister rejected calls to widen the inquiry into child abuse, which is being chaired by Lady Hale, to investigate abuse at football clubs.

The current inquiry only examines abuse against those who were in the care at the time of the incidents.

The SFA has been contacted for comment by STV News.