Hearts could file guest club application and join Celtic and Rangers in Lowland League

The application process has begun for guest clubs to join the Lowland League for the 2022/23 season, the Scottish Lowland Football League have confirmed.

A majority of clubs voted at the start of April in favour to allow the reserve sides to continue in the league for another campaign after the 2021/22 season saw Celtic and Rangers B teams feature in the league for the first time in a pilot scheme.

The move would likely open the door for clubs such as Hearts who have previously expressed an interest in fielding a 'B' team in the league.

A league statement read: "We are delighted to announce that clubs who wish to be considered to be a guest club for season 2022/23 can now submit an expression of interest form.

"Following a recent vote of member clubs the League has vacancies for guest clubs for next season.

"Any club from the SPFL who is interested in being part of the League should email secretary@slfl.co.uk to receive the criteria, league rules and an expression of interest form.

"A further announcement about the inclusion of guest cubs for next season will be made in due course."

Bonnyrigg Rose were crowned league champions this season, finishing 14 points ahead of second place Celtic B, with Rangers B a further three points behind in fourth place.

Rangers have seen Alex Lowry, Charlie McCann and Tony Weston make the push for top team action from the Lowland League side while Celtic youngsters Ben Doak and Owen Moffat have made similar progressions for the Hoops.

Guest clubs such as B teams are still not permitted to be promoted or relegated in line with similar set-ups across Europe.