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[VIDEO] Scottish League ends the season, Celtic declares champion

The SPFL have decided to end the 2019-20 season, thus awarding the league trophy to Celtic for the 9th consecutive time.

Celtic have been 13 points clear of Old Firm rivals Rangers after 30 league games while Hearts of Midlothian relegated to the championship.

SPFL chairman Murdoch MacLennan said decision have been made because of fans.

“We would all have rather seen the league season played out on pitches, in stadiums and in front of supporters.

‘This is not the way anybody involved with Scottish football would have wanted to conclude the league season but, given the grave and unprecedented circumstances that we are facing, the board has agreed that it is the only practical way forward.

“Covid-19 has wreaked havoc on sporting competitions around the world and the repercussions will be felt for a long time.

“Scottish Government restrictions and deep concerns for both player and spectator safety left the SPFL with no realistic option but to call the Ladbrokes Premiership now and we thank the Premiership clubs for their support on this decision.”

SPFL chief executive Neil Doncaster also revealed that the board reached such decision because there was no realistic prospect of completing the outstanding fixtures.

“This decision now enables us to pay out around £7 million in fees to help clubs stay afloat during this incredibly difficult time. We will begin processing these payments immediately.

“Nobody should be under any illusion as to how complicated and difficult a challenge it will be to return Scottish football to normality. We will be liaising with Government on the best way forward and working to ensure that all of our 42 clubs are playing football again as soon as humanly possible.”

For the next season, SPFL said Betfred Cup first round group stage is scheduled to begin in mid-July.

The 2020/21 season in all four divisions is due to commence on 1 August, which coincides with the start of exclusive five-year broadcasting deal with Sky Sports.