Hearts, Hibs and Edinburgh City could be set for Betfred Cup action in July as 'virtual season tickets' discussed

The Betfred Cup may return in July. Picture: SNS

Hearts, Hibs and Edinburgh City could be heading for a July return with Betfred Cup games possibly played in ‘hub’ stadiums.

The Scottish FA and SPFL Joint Response Group issued an update on discussions around the six sub-groups, revealing that possible locations are being identified around the country for the restart with multiple matches over a weekend.

It includes “scenario planning for supporter inclusion at matches undertaken on the principle of 2m social distancing measure”

In addition, online streaming and ‘virtual season tickets’ have been discussed.

Following the rejection of Rangers’ resolution for an independent investigation, SPFL chairman Murdoch MacLennan called on clubs to unite and move forward to get Scottish football back up and running.

He revealed that the aim is for football to restart in July.

MacLennan said: “If Scottish football is to survive this, we simply must unite and use the enormous talents, resources and creativity at our collective disposal to rescue our game.

“Time is short. In reality, we must do everything humanly possible to get games back up and running by the end of July.”

Gate receipts make up a significant portion of many Scottish clubs' income with the Premiership teams more reliant on ticket revenue than any other top tier league in Europe according to a Uefa report.

The Daily Mail report Dundee, Fife, Inverness and Aberdeenshire are under consideration as a base for the ‘hubs’.

The Scottish FA said: “The utilisation of ‘hub’ stadiums across the country with potential to host multiple matches over a weekend, centralise match day resourcing and manage spectator safety was discussed. Positives and negatives were noted and it was agreed that each sub group would consider this model as part of their ongoing activity.”

A number of different aspects need to be considered, including travel and hospitality for supporters as well as players returning to training.

Lower league games could make a return first but the SPFL are wary of new broadcasting deals starting in July and August.

Chief executive Neil Doncaster said: “We have the Betfred Cup group stages, which are scheduled for mid-July.

“We have an exclusive partnership with Premier Sports. And we’ve got the new five-year deal with Sky Sports, which is due to kick off in the first weekend of August. Those are the timescales we are working to.”

All three Edinburgh clubs are due to enter the Betfred Cup group stages with a review of broadcast deals contracts expected.

‘Virtual season tickets’ and contracts

There is a distinct possibility that games could be played behind closed doors.

It is something which the response group are exploring with different areas discussed, including ‘virtual season tickets’, online streaming, plus the blocked hours on Saturday for broadcast of live football in the UK.

One of the response group’s next steps is to create a working group “to explore principles of behind closed doors or a hybrid model for Premiership (including technical, operational and pricing)” with a “separate group to discuss the above for Championship to League Two”.

Players contracts was another area that has been discussed.

The registration period for clubs over the summer is currently 10 June – 1 September and a decision is required by 9 June.

A sub-group has been formed “to discuss player contract issues and report back on key points”.

Rod Petrie, Scottish FA President and JRG Chair: “I would like to thank the sub groups for the dutiful way in which they have embraced the challenges and responsibilities placed before them in finding a viable plan to restart Scottish football.

“At this juncture I would also like to acknowledge the clear guidance and pragmatic approach from the Scottish Government which anchor our plans in reality, and are based on sound medical advice and expertise.

“Naturally, we all wish to see football return as quickly as possible but we must continue to adhere to the guidance of the Chief Medical Officer whilst using the power of football to convey messages that will keep people safe and at home.

“The work of the sub groups is summarised below and shows the breadth and depth of work being undertaken to ensure a smooth and safe return at the appropriate time.”