Source: FOOTYMAD
Not A Done Deal
There is still much work to be done on SPL plans for a re-vamp of the structure The SPL's plans for a revamp of Scottish football by introducing a 10-team top tier and a second tier of 12 teams look set to be met with opposition, with Kilmarnock among those yet to be convinced. After yesterday's meeting at Hampden with the member clubs, the SPL claimed "broad support" was given to the plans. However, Kilmarnock - who were among those against previous proposals for two divisions of 10 teams - say their stance on changes to the top-flight has not changed. Chairman Michael Johnston said: "Kilmarnock's position has not altered. We are still opposed to a 10-team top division. Significant adjustments have to be made to the current proposals before Kilmarnock would support a 10-team league." Kilmarnock were one of only three teams who were in favour of a 14-team division and Inverness chairman George Fraser expressed his disappointment that that option was not given enough support at the meeting. He said: "The question was asked at the meeting for a show of hands in favour of a 14-team division and only Hearts, Kilmarnock and ourselves voted for it. Our club remains convinced it was the best option for supporters and entertaining football and we're extremely disappointed that when it came to the crunch, the necessary support was not there. Apparently the majority of clubs felt the 14-team option was not financially viable and we have to accept the democratic decision of the meeting on the day. Further work is to be done over the next few weeks on the Strategic Review Team's proposals and when their completed business model becomes available, Caley Thistle will carefully study the detail with an open mind." Hearts - the other club who voted for 14 teams - were represented at the talks by managing director David Southern. He said: "All 12 clubs held productive talks which now allow Hearts to continue our focus on securing the best opportunity for youth development across both the first-team squad and a potential colt team. We also believe that serious consideration is now being given to a revised income distribution model which will allow for a more equitable distribution of monies in the game. A 14-team league proposal, as preferred by our supporters, was tabled and discussed in some detail, however it was apparent at the conclusion of the meeting that there was little appetite amongst the majority of clubs to progress this proposal as an option." Editor Ger Harley (ger@scottishfitba net)Admin Team (admin@scottishfitba net)This is ScottishFitba Net
