Johnston happy with discussions

24 December 2010 17:30

Kilmarnock chairman Michael Johnston revealed the meeting between the six Scottish Premier League clubs not involved in proposing radical changes to Scottish football was "useful and constructive".

Representatives from Killie, Hearts, Dundee United, Inverness, St Johnstone and Hamilton met at Hampden to discuss proposals formulated by the SPL's strategic review group, which include a two-tier SPL, with 10 teams in each division, changes to the calendar and the introduction of play-offs.

Johnston told Press Association Sport: "There were some useful discussions. Everyone there got the opportunity to put their point forward and it was all very constructive. There are a variety of views as to the best way forward but it is too early to comment on what could happen."

He added: "The next step is the general meeting planned for January 4 where all 12 clubs can discuss the review's report. Those will be the first formal discussions on the matter."

The strategic review group comprised SPL chief executive Neil Doncaster, SPL chairman Ralph Topping and representatives from Hibernian, St Mirren, Motherwell, Celtic, Rangers and Aberdeen.

Dundee United chairman Stephen Thompson declared the discussions "worthwhile".

"It was a very good meeting and very constructive," Thompson told BBC Scotland. "It was certainly worthwhile and everyone had plenty of time to make their points known.

"The clubs who were there were not represented on the steering group last week so we got the chance to air our views.

"The meeting was very well chaired and very open and constructive.

"I think everyone feels a bit better that we have had some input and that it has been heard."

Source: PA