COLTS MAY PAY HIGHER FEES

THE Lowland League plan to negotiate higher entry fees from Celtic, Hearts and Rangers in return for granting B teams another season in the fifth tier. A meeting of SLFL clubs discussed the return of Premiership colts for another campaign on Monday night.

Sportsmail revealed how the SFA’s pyramid working group plan to introduce a ten-team Conference League, which would see four Premiership B teams join six clubs from the Highland and Lowland leagues in a new-look fifth tier from season 2024-25. Until then, Celtic, Hearts and Rangers want to give their best young prospects somewhere to play by preserving their guest spots in the current Lowland League. An indicative vote by the 16 clubs over the issue on Monday delivered a 7-6 verdict in favour, with three teams abstaining. In order to pass, however, a resolution needs nine votes in favour or an 8-8 vote, with a casting vote. Short of the threshold needed to invite the three B teams back for another year, league officials will try to sweeten the pill for member clubs by asking the three Premiership outfits to pay more for another season. The new Conference League will be a stand-alone entity, distinct from the SPFL, with the four Premiership entrants expected to pay up to £100,000 each a season to fund it. Currently paid significantly less than that by the top-flight trio, Lowland League sides believe they hold a strong bargaining position and will hold further talks with the SFA. Failure to reach an agreement could see plans for the Conference rushed forward to next season. By standing outside the SPFL, the establishment of a new league will require no formal vote by the 42 senior clubs. It’s understood, however, that the idea will only proceed if it carries strong support at all levels.