Football return date pushed back to mid February at earliest

A statement from the governing body confirmed the decision was made in line with the Scottish Government’s plan to keep lockdown measures in place till the same time.

They also confirmed that further update will be communicated by Wednesday, February 10.

The statement said: “The Scottish FA has this week undertaken extensive consultation with representatives of leagues and clubs affected by the temporary suspension announced on January 11.

"This process has been beneficial in understanding the specific challenges faced by clubs at those levels within the men’s and women’s games, in particular understanding the key components required to facilitate return to play within each competition when it is safe to do so.

"Given that current lockdown measures implemented by the First Minister will now remain in place across Scotland until at least the middle of February, the existing temporary suspension of football will be extended until midnight on Sunday, 14 February.

"This affects leagues with predominantly part-time clubs – although a number of full-time clubs have been affected. The SFA will continue to work with those affected to develop league and division- specific plans for a return to training and playing, including adequate training and conditioning time.

"Those circumstances vary and will be kept under constant review with any restart of the game likely to happen on a progressive basis.”