SPL 2 plans may go ahead
By Andy Campbell

The Scottish Premier League is a step closer to creating a second division - two and a half years after first proposing it.

The Scottish Football League had contested a bid to introduce an SPL2, claiming it would breach a previous agreement between the two bodies.

But the Scottish FA's arbitration panel concluded on Thursday that a second tier would not breach the agreement.

"We welcome this outcome," said SPL executive chairman Lex Gold.

"It has taken quite some time to arrive at this conclusion.

"But the way is now clear for us to review this outcome with our clubs after which we will have discussions with our colleagues in the SFL.

"Our aim through all of this has been to enhance and strengthen the senior professional game in Scotland."

The proposal for a new top-flight structure of 22 clubs playing in two divisions was first introduced in 2006.

But the SFL challenged the proposal, insisting it woul ... Read more »

Celtic v Rangers
Venue: Celtic Park Date: Sunday, 15 January Kick-off: 1230 GMT Coverage: BBC Radio Scotland & BBC Sport website. Highlights on website from midnight on Sunday
Celtic v Rangers

Celtic midfielder Shaun Maloney is struggling to shake off a hamstring injury for Sunday's Old Firm derby.

Skipper Stephen McManus has recovered from a knee injury, but defender Mark Wilson is out for four weeks after undergoing a pelvis operation.

Rangers have no fresh injury concerns ahead of the top-of-table match, as all players involved in midweek internationals returned to Ibrox fit.

Nacho Novo misses the game after injuring his ankle two weeks ago.

Celtic manager Gordon Strachan: "I think it's been proved in the last couple of (Old Firm) games that it doesn't determine where trophies go.

"The two teams are making mistakes elsewhere. But we will not think about that on Sunday. We will just think about winning the game and seeing where that takes us.

... Read more »

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