SPFL chief executive Neil Doncaster believes the days of Scotland’s biggest clubs going bust is a thing of the past.

Just 24 hours after Craig Whyte, the former Rangers owner, was found not guilty of fraud, Doncaster was reluctant to discuss that particular case.

But he did feel that Scottish football was now better equipped to prevent what happen at Ibrox and Hearts.

“The rules within the league were changed in the aftermath of what happened with Rangers in terms of taxes payable being paid and players being paid on time,” said Doncaster. “That was a dramatic change. 

“We are in a new place now with Rangers in the Premiership and we also look forward to a top flight with Hibernian making it as competitive as it has been for some while.”

Doncaster revealed that two extra Irish teams, Bray Wanderers and Sligo Rovers, will take part in the IRN-BRU Cup this season, joining teams from both sides of the Irish border, Wales and Scotland.

UEFA has lessened its grip when it comes to cross-border football but does that really mean we are going to one day at least get a British Cup?

“We don’t have a crystal ball,” he said. “There is an appetite for cross border competition including at league level across Europe.

To give Doncaster his due, at least he trying something different. True, unless you were a fan of either finalists you would be excused for not knowing who won last time (Dundee United beat St Mirren) but some big ideas do begin small.

“To talk about any particular cross border involvement would be a mistake,” said Doncaster in reply to being asked if this could mean those owners who want a crack at England in the future would be granted their wish.

“There is a strong appetite (among Premiership club) to embrace innovation and be open-minded about anything that benefits the game and attracts interest and finance.”