Raith Rovers in favour but SPFL proposal to end season ‘unlikely’ to succeed, says chairman Bill Clark

However, chairman Bill Clark believes the chances of reaching agreement are slim following a conference call with the SFA, SPFL and his fellow League One bosses this afternoon.

The proposal to end the Championship, League One and League Two campaigns due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic would see final placings determined by points per game in league matches played to date.

This would result in the promotion of Dundee United, Raith and Cove Rangers, and the relegation of Partick Thistle and Stranraer.

Play-offs would also be cancelled, although, if the recommendations are approved, the SPFL has also committed to consulting with clubs over the possibility of league reconstruction for season 2020/21.

Meanwhile, a decision over the outcome of the Premiership has been delayed “to give the best possible opportunity” for it to finish.

Rovers are understandably in favour of the proposals, which would also result in the much-needed payment of prize money, but with 75 per cent of clubs in each division required to vote in favour for the motion to pass, Mr Clark is less than optimistic over a positive outcome.

He said: “It is my view, having had a discussion with all the chairmen of other League One clubs, the SPFL and SFA, that it will be a very close run thing to get the 75 per cent, and I’m doubtful at this moment in time that we’ll get it.”

An initial deadline was set for clubs to vote by Friday but, according to Mr Clark, this has now been extended. 

“Some people want more time to go and consult with their boards, and think about things longer, so now there’s no deadline on it,” he stated.

While the Premiership and Championship will each vote as a single entity, Mr Clark’s understanding is that League One and Two clubs’ votes will be combined.

“We would need 15 clubs to agree, and I already know of three League One clubs from today’s discussion that would oppose,” he said.

“I would think it’s very unlikely to get over the line.

“I fear some of them are voting to go into liquidation rather than getting their money from the league.”

SPFL chief executive Neil Doncaster added: “Now is the right time to act. 

“Very regrettably, we must face the reality that it’s simply not possible for the remaining Ladbrokes Championship, League 1 and League 2 fixtures to remain postponed without causing significant further financial harm to clubs in those divisions.  

“Further, many of our clubs are experiencing very challenging organisational and financial circumstances.

“Everyone in our game and in the country generally, is wrestling with the devastating impact of Covid-19. 

“They all know there are no easy answers or simple solutions, but the Board’s recommended proposal will give us a far greater degree of certainty, minimise the harm to the game overall, and enable us make end-of-season fee payments now to Ladbrokes Championship, League 1 and League 2 clubs.”

No final decision will be taken until after UEFA’s executive meeting on April 23.