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Glasgow Live
Glasgow Live
Sport
Robert Fairnie

What Rangers have said about proposals to end the league now as clubs prepare for vote

Rangers have issued a statement stating their belief that the "season is only complete" when all fixtures have been played to a finish – describing any suggestions the league could end now as "abhorrent".

The Ibrox club is, however, calling for league prize money to be distributed to all clubs throughout Scotland early to ease the pressure being felt due to the ongoing coronavirus shut down.

In a statement issued on Wednesday they also addressed talk of possible league reconstruction, saying that any plans must be properly scrutinised and not rushed through.

It emerged on Wednesday that discussions had taken place among the 12 Premiership clubs regarding possible solutions in the event the remainder of the season can't be completed over the summer.

The SPFL will ask all 42 clubs to vote on ending the lower league season this week, although a decision on the top flight has been deferred.

Rangers said: "For the avoidance of doubt, Rangers firmly believe that the 2019/20 season is only complete when all 38 games have been played to a finish.

"Nevertheless, we are conscious of the ongoing financial hardships faced by many clubs within the Scottish game. No business is immune from the impact of Coronavirus and we were proud of our players and senior staff’s voluntary decision to defer their wages to ensure job security for their colleagues at Ibrox. Furthermore, many clubs urgently require financial support to maintain cash flow and allow them to survive this current impasse so they can return to normal business when the current government lockdown is relaxed. It is important to recognise that these clubs across all the leagues are now in a financially precarious situation.

"As a club, Rangers will immediately propose a member’s resolution which would release prize money to be distributed to all clubs throughout Scotland urgently. We believe that this is the priority in the present circumstances. It is vital to show respect for all clubs across the Scottish game, regardless of league position or financial standing. We must work together with a unity of purpose for the betterment of the Scottish game.

"We are also acutely aware of other issues which are less pressing but, are forming key parts of the football narrative in Scotland. Nothing is more important than protecting the future of every club in Scotland as we are cognisant that this has a direct impact upon people’s livelihoods. It is abhorrent that certain clubs could be unfairly relegated if the current SPFL proposals were implemented. We must future proof the Scottish game."

Regarding any possible restructuring of the leagues, they added: "Any restructure of the SPFL or other solutions to the current impasse must be afforded time to scrutinise in detail and consider all options. The consequences of forcing through change without due care and attention will have severe consequences for the Scottish game.

"Scottish football must work together for the common good of every club, their staff and supporters. Any attempts to railroad changes to existing rules or run roughshod over corporate governance will be opposed in the strongest possible terms. We must allow decisions to be made in a rational, fair and balanced manner.

"In the meantime, we expect clubs to support our member’s resolution which will provide financial support to those who need it most."

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