This evening, it has been reported that Rangers and Celtic have entered into discussions with the Lowland League to have ‘colt’ teams admitted to their setup.
If the move goes ahead, it would open up the future possibility of both Old Firm clubs having an additional side in the SPFL – with a likely ‘cap’ coming at League 1 or Championship level.
It has also been claimed that the Lowland agreement would only be in place for one year.
The news came from Raman Bhardwaj of STV.
Celtic and Rangers in discussions with Lowland League for Colts teams to play in their league next season.
— Raman Bhardwaj (@ramanbhardwajTV) May 5, 2021
Rangers, with a focus on youth development refer to a B team, rather than ‘colts’ or reserves.
The club looks to football nations such as Holland and Portugal with the big sides having teams in the second tier.
Rangers have been pro-active in pushing for a re-structure within the present SPFL set-up which would see them placing a team into League 2 – along with Celtic – but so far this has been met with resistance by the other clubs, as well as the authorities.
However, some Scottish lower league clubs would welcome change – as well as the added revenue that would materialise.
Refreshing
Back in March, Albion Rovers boss Brian Reid stated to the Daily Record:
“The way to solve everything would be reconstruction this season.”
“Whether the colts are involved or not, it would be something fresh ahead of the new season.”
“I’ve always been a fan of only playing teams twice a season, home and away.”
“I played down in England with Blackburn and Burnley and it was so much better.”
“If League One and Two were expanded then it would be more refreshing for everyone.”
“There are some ambitious clubs down the pyramids who have spent money and would bring value to the league.”
“I wouldn’t be against a bigger league and players would really enjoy it. I enjoyed it as a player and it was miles better.”
“Sometimes you can draw a team in the cup and play them six times in a season. It’s ridiculous and far too much.”
“Supporters get fed up with it as well and that shows in the attendances. I’ve always been a fan of it so that could be a possibility and it would be good for the pyramid.”