Doncaster keen to see SPL v English in British Cup

SCOTTISH Premier League chief executive Neil Doncaster has spoken in favour of creating a British Cup competition.

As the game in Scotland continues its battle against dropping standards and dwindling crowds, Doncaster, speaking at a Real Radio roadshow in Glasgow, was invited to consider once more the age-old idea of the best clubs from north and south of the border playing together.

“I certainly wouldn’t rule it out at all,” he said “I think it would be a very exciting innovation. It would certainly bring a lot of money into the game, and a lot of interest into the game.

“To see the very best of the Clydesdale Bank Premier League taking on the best in the Premier League in England, everyone would want to see that.

“It something that needs to be explored.

“These things take time like everything else but potentially I would absolutely not rule that out.”

Doncaster was not dissuaded by Tottenham’s demolition of Hearts in their Europa League play-off earlier in the season.

Harry Redknapp’s men romped to a 5-0 win at Tynecastle in the first leg before the goalless draw at White Hart Lane saw the London club cruise through to the group stage of the competition.

“I was down at Spurs for the Hearts return leg and Hearts gave an incredible account of themselves,” said Doncaster. “I don’t think it would be one-sided at all.

“I think there would be interest south of the border.

“I think there would be real interest from a commercial point of view and if that happens it brings money into the game and that enhances the ability of clubs to bring better players in, because it is all about money.”

He added: “Potentially a British Cup would be seen as something worth winning.

“Potentially, if you had European places up for grabs, who knows? It’s certainly something we shouldn’t rule out.”

Doncaster would also be open to safe-standing areas in grounds - an idea which is currently being considered by Celtic.

“Personally, I am open-minded about it,” he said.

“It would need a change in SPL rules, ditto in SFA rules, because both sets of rules prohibit standing in the top division. But I think we should remain open-minded about it.

“I would like to see it explored. That is not an SPL position – that is a personal position.”