SFA still awaiting news on fate of suspended leagues

The Scottish Football Association is still awaiting news on the fate of the suspended leagues but senses its representations have been “positively received” by government.

Talks have been held with Scottish Government officials and sports minister Mairi Gougeon over potentially restarting the levels of football which were suspended on January 12.

All but the top two tiers of the men’s game have been in limbo since then, following a response to increased numbers of Covid-19 cases and concerns over new variants.

An SFA statement read: “Since then, a series of discussions have taken place via video conference with all leagues affected by the suspension, to establish the measures and protocols under which each might resume their competitions.

“This information has been shared with the Scottish Government and, while it has been positively received, we await a final decision from ministers.”
SFA president Rod Petrie added: “We are grateful to all leagues, clubs and participants affected by the temporary suspension for their patience and understanding during this period of uncertainty.

“They have played their part in keeping the nation safe and restricting the potential spread of the virus.

“I would also like to thank the representatives from those leagues and clubs, who have been proactive and collaborative in giving their input into safe and sustainable plans for a return to competition.

“These plans have already been discussed with government officials.

“We look forward to hearing when and in what circumstances those leagues which have been suspended can return to training and, ultimately, to playing.”

Clubs in League One and Two previously offered to regularly test their players for coronavirus to help get back playing.

The Highland and Lowland leagues were also suspended along with the new East, West and South of Scotland leagues in the pyramid.

The Scottish Junior leagues and the North Caledonian League are also in a state of flux along with the Scottish Women’s Football Premier Leagues 1 and 2.