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SPFL chief Doncaster says Covid-related issues behind delay in clubs receiving share of £1m TV money
NEIL DONCASTER has explained coronavirus-related issues are behind the delay clubs receiving a share of last season's TV money.
The SPFL have yet to pay out a total amount worth £1m among Scottish sides from the 2019-20 campaign.
According to the BBC, this money comes from the final payment from last season's broadcasting deal.
However, Hampden chiefs can't pay clubs their share of the money until their accounts are signed off for the year.
And speaking on BBC Scotland's Sportsound show this afternoon, SPFL chief Doncaster explained the reasons for the delay.
He said: "The accounts for last season need to be signed off.
"Like every other aspect of life around the world, Covid has caused some complications and delays.
"In terms of Uefa solidarity that's normally paid out in October and November, that's been delayed until probably closer to Christmas.
"As soon as we get our accounts signed off, what other fees are due to clubs from last season, we'll be able to pay out any remaining amounts.
"But in the scheme of things, £1m is frankly not going to be much of a solution.
"The UK government has provided an additional £6.5bn to the Scottish Government to deal with Covid-related harm, and Scottish clubs have seen none of that. Not a penny."
After being asked what specifically has caused the delay for signing off the SPFL's accounts, Doncaster explained further: "Like everything else related to Covid, there clearly are complications in terms of getting deals done.
"We've had a number of conversations with overseas broadcasters in particular.
"Clearly that causes a slight delay to the accounts.
"There's no concerns or issue, it's just a question of going through the process which is taking slightly longer than usual."
He continued: "The audit committee - which I don't sit on - when they are ready, will present a set of accounts to the board which, I hope, the board will sign off.
"Once those accounts are signed off from last season, then any fees due to clubs from last season will be paid out."
The SPFL reportedly hope to publish their accounts by the end of next month.
SPFL chief Doncaster says Covid-related issues behind delay in clubs receiving share of £1m TV money (thescottishsun.co.uk)