SPFL chief executive aims to 'heal divisions' with Rangers

The SPFL have called on clubs to unite

SPFL chief executive Neil Doncaster is keen to “heal divisions” with Rangers.

The Ibrox club saw their resolution for an independent investigation into the league body voted down on Wednesday with just 13 teams in favour of the proposal.

Twenty seven clubs rejected an inquiry, while two abstained.

Neil Doncaster wants to heal divisions with Rangers. Picture: SNS

It followed a period of controversy in Scottish football following the SPFL’s own resolution to terminate the leagues below the Ladbrokes Premiership.

The rancour has played out in the open with statements, accusations and allegations.

Rangers released a statement in the aftermath of the vote, thanking those clubs who voted in favour of an independent investigation but stating that the “status quo cannot hold”.

It read: “A management culture which not only fears accountability and scrutiny, but which actively campaigns against it, is unhealthy and breeds continued mistrust. This culture, so deeply embedded, must be addressed if Scottish football is to flourish.

“It is clear that many members have lost confidence in the SPFL leadership and the need for change will not diminish.”

Rangers are now considering their next move, which could be legal action as reported by The Scotsman.

Doncaster, who the Ibrox club asked to be suspended, is keen to speak to the club’s chairman Douglas Park following SPFL chairman Murdoch MacLennan’s call for clubs to “unite”.

With the current climate preventing a face-to-face discussion, the chief executive wants everyone to work together and that “time is a great healer”.

“Yes, I think all of us actually should look at ways in which we can help to heal divisions and bring people back together,” he told the Daily Record, We are living in extraordinary times where you can’t get round the table and meet people face to face.

“We’re all in lockdown and all isolated so we’re having to use phones, e-mails and video conferences rather than sitting down with people. That presents its own challenge but I do think it’s important that all of reflect on what we can do to help heel what has gone on over these past two months and help the game to move forward.

“We’re much better able to ensure that the game survives if we are all working together.”