Reconstruction can’t be a quick fix – Brannigan

CLUBS cannot surrender to short-termism when proposing a new future for our game.

That is the view of Dundee United managing director Mal Brannigan on SPFL reconstruction.

The league is locked in talks over a potential reorganisation of divisions with United guaranteed a seat at the top table after the vote to call the lower leagues and dish out titles.

Some, including Hearts chief Ann Budge, co-chair of the working group, say any increase in the number of clubs in the Premiership will be a short-term fix for up to two seasons.

However, Brannigan is keen for any new structure to remain in place after the passing of the coronavirus pandemic.

“When the split was first mooted a number of years ago there would have been positive and negatives but clubs and players have got used to it,” he said.

“We know what the parameters are now.

“For me, if there is to be reorganisation, I would like there to be a permanency about it rather than a temporary fix on the back of the virus and the effect it’s had.

“We’ve got a chance and a really positive opportunity to reshape it if that’s what the clubs decide to do.”

Brannigan believes a 14-team top-tier will be the favoured format but insists the Terrors are planning for all eventualities.

He added: “Ordinarily, you’d already know the parameters you’re going to be working in next season and our view is that we will look at a 12-team model in the first instance.

“There is an awful lot of work that needs to be done and they have some good people in place within that working group across a number of divisions.

“You have to look at the facts first and, once we know what they are, we can make a decision.

“If you have a difference of opinion to somebody else, now is the right time to give it.

“As a member of a collective of 42, if we think their proposal is the right thing for Scottish football then we’ll vote for it.

“But we’re not quite sure what those will be at the moment but the favourite seems to be a