Scottish FA announce new plans to assist youth player development

The plans were presented to all 42 SPFL clubs at a meeting in St Andrews and, if approved, would come into effect from the 2027/28 season.

One item discussed was that clubs would be required to start two under-21 Scotland-eligible players in every Scottish Cup and Premier Sports Cup fixture, one of which must remain on the pitch throughout the match.

A £1 million fund would also be made available to clubs to provide increased playing time to young players.

The proposals come after concerns over the number of opportunities available to young Scottish players at Premiership level. Under-21 Scotland-eligible players recorded just 18,706 minutes in the top flight last season, compared to a previous 80,345 minutes in 2013.

There has already been progress in Scotland’s lower divisions following changes introduced last season.

The Co-operation System has increased minutes across the Championship, League One and League Two.

The Championship saw an increase of 9.6%, while League One rose by 3.5% and League Two recorded a 17.6% increase.

The Scottish FA says the latest proposals are intended to build on that progress and give more young players the opportunity to gain regular senior experience.

The proposals will now go forward to a Scottish FA General Meeting in October and the SPFL’s AGM in November, where clubs will vote on the plans.