Lowland League: Hearts interest raises prospect of another controversial vote

The 16 member clubs voted 11-4 on Monday night to approve the admission of two guest teams again next season. Clubs did not, however, vote to approve specific new applications from Celtic and Rangers, who have already confirmed that they would like to participate again next season.

It means that if Hearts or any other other clubs make an application along with the Old Firm, Lowland league members will be forced to vote on which two clubs to admit and who to leave out.

According to a source at the Tynecastle club, Hearts are still ‘very interested’ in joining for next season. Robbie Neilson told the Evening News in February that Hearts would consider joining the Lowland League if there was a lack of progress on talks to restarting the reserve league next season.

Lowland League chairman Thomas Brown explained: “The league rules are quite clear. It is a 16-team league, but it can go to 18 at clubs’ discretion.

“The clubs have only voted on the principle of admitting guest clubs for next season.But there has been no vote on which clubs get in.

“If there are only two applications then there would be no requirement for a vote. If there’s more than that it would go to a vote to decide who gets in.”

The rules which applied to the Old Firm colts sides this season are expected to be tightened up. An increase in the £25,000 fee along with an agreement to play fixtures at licensed stadiums, a squad limit of 22 registered players, age restrictions and a limit on those who have played in the first team are some of the likely requirements.

Brown confirmed: “The criteria for guest clubs has still to be confirmed. There is already a formal agreement in place for current guest clubs this season. Part of the criteria will be similar to