Challenge Cup in doubt for Hearts and Edinburgh City

Reports suggest clubs have until Friday to decide if they can take part

The Challenge Cup is in doubt. Picture: SNS

The Challenge Cup could be shelved for the coming season, meaning there will be fewer games for Hearts and Edinburgh City.

According to the Daily Record, the trophy for clubs outside of the Scottish Premiership may not take place due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The SPFL have been in dialogue with clubs over the competition and are reportedly keen for an answer on Friday as to whether they are able to take part in it.

With Scottish Government restrictions all but ruling out a return to grounds for fans in the foreseeable future, clubs are facing even greater financial concern.

The league body wants to ensure clubs are able to afford to take part before moving forward with the Challenge Cup with the Record suggesting the decision will be taken to cancel it this campaign.

it would mean fewer games for clubs outside the Premiership with the truncated Championship, League One and League Two seasons, teams playing 27 games rather than 36.

In recent seasons the tournament has been a controversial topic with the involvement of Colt teams and sides from around the rest of the UK and Ireland.

The lower league clubs will get their season underway next week with the start of the Betfred Cup before the league campaign begins later in the month.

The decision was taken yesterday regarding substitutes with the Championship sides voting for a maximum of three, whereas Leagues One and Two will follow the Premiership in allowing five.