SPL2 likely to debut in 2008

Lex Gold, Scottish Premier League executive chairman, met with 14 Scottish Football League clubs to discuss proposals for an SPL2. First Division clubs could break from the SFL this summer and Gold sensed an "energy" to move the plans forward.

The SPL, which is involved in a dispute with the SFL over a financial settlement for the remaining clubs, has proposed the new division be put into effect in August 2008.

However, Gold said some clubs hoped to have the new system, a 12-club top flight and a ten-club SPL2, in place by the start of next season.

Clubs would be admitted on "sporting merit" and there was no suggestion that Second Division clubs involved in the talks would be admitted to the expanded SPL.

The First Division clubs kept the discussion going even after Gold left the meeting.

Gold believes an August 2008 start is possible.

"There was a feeling in the room amongst some of them that they want to move quicker," said Gold. "Others had more modest aspirations. It would be difficult."

The SPL is arguing with the SFL over the financial settlement should the split happen. The SPL currently gives GBP 1.6 million a season to the SFL clubs and wants to reduce that to just around GBP 1 million.

"The next step for us is we're waiting for the SFA to arbitrate on our disagreement with the SFL," Gold said.

"We believe there is a need to improve the top level of our game. The gap between ourselves and the First Division will grow unless that is addressed.

"We put forward our proposals on 17 August. Just under eight months on, there have been no substantive discussions about the proposals."

Source: euFootball.BIZ © Copyright 2006 - All rights reserved.