Ferguson applauds 'vital' decision

The SPL initially planned for the 2009-10 campaign to kick off on August 8 - just four days before a crucial World Cup 2010 qualifier in Norway.Following a formal request from the Scottish Football Association, league bosses last week agreed to delay the start of the new term until August 15."It's vital," said Scotland and Rangers captain Ferguson. "It gives us a full week to prepare. Before, it would have meant only being together for two or three days."It gives the gaffer seven days to spend with us and get us prepared for the game against Norway."Ferguson was also pleased with the opportunity to meet with the rest of the Scotland squad for a gathering earlier this month in preperation for next month's qualifier against Holland.He added: "We didn't train on the Monday because the weather was so bad but it gets all the guys together."We were able to train at Dens Park on the Tuesday and it was good to see everyone."Hopefully we will prepare right because it's a massive game over in Holland."

Source: Team_Talk