Football: Scottish clubs optimistic

THE SEARCH for change in the formation of Scottish League football could soon be over, with general movement towards a system of four divisions of 10 clubs, writes David McKinney. That is the conclusion following a meeting of the Premier Division clubs in Glasgow yesterday and Sunday's meeting of First and Second Division clubs.

Peter Donald, the Scottish League secretary, says the signs are hopeful that the new formation will meet with approval. 'The majority of clubs seemed to support such a suggestion,' he said, 'although the means of achieving such a change are still open to discussion. The Scottish League management committee meet on Thursday and will consider whether or not to call an extraordinary general meeting.

'Any change will come into effect for season 1994-95 and it is likely we will retain the status quo of a top league of 12 teams for next season with three clubs relegated and one promoted to bring us to the new league of 10 clubs.'

The desire for change among the top clubs, which brought about the Scottish Super League, has resulted in almost a year of unrest and Donald is hopeful the new plan can bring about a lasting solution.

'Part of the proposal is for the system to remain in place for a minimum period of five years and I would hope this would be the structure of the game for the foreseeable future,' he said.

An EGM, if called, would take place at the end of April or beginning of May and if the proposal is successful it would spark off a scramble among non-League and Highland League clubs for the two additional places it would create.