THE Scottish Football Association has announced that the current suspension of football beneath the Championship will be extended further.

The temporary suspension – announced by the SFA on January 11 – was extended for the first time until February 14.

However, an announcement on Tuesday (February 9) confirmed that the suspension would be extended again, with no return date currently set.

The suspension affects Gala Fairydean Rovers and Vale of Leithen, who compete in the Lowland League.

Peebles Rovers, Coldstream, Hawick Royal Albert United and Eyemouth are the other Borders clubs impacted by the decision.

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A spokesperson for the SFA said: “In recent weeks, the Scottish FA has engaged extensively with clubs and leagues affected by the suspension of professional football across the men’s and women’s game to discuss tailored return to playing plans for implementation when it is considered safe and appropriate to resume.

“We have also remained in regular dialogue with Scottish Government to ensure their input into and ultimately approval of those proposed plans.

“Regrettably, the government has today confirmed that – in cognisance of the current restrictions in place across the country – they cannot currently commit to return dates for those affected leagues in the coming weeks.

“We will continue to speak with all parties in the meantime and will provide a further update by 1 March.

“This date should not be seen as a proposed restart date, however it should help provide some clarity to affected clubs to aid their planning over the short term.

“Whilst this is disappointing news, Scottish football will continue to play its part in assisting the Scottish Government’s efforts to reduce the prevalence of COVID-19 across the country.”