SPL: Need to find a replacement for Rangers

However, the decision on the identity of "Club 12" is not expected to be made until after Scottish Football League clubs decide on proposals to admit newco Rangers, with a meeting due to take place next Thursday.

Relegated Dunfermline believe they should be reinstated but a plan to put the Ibrox club in the Irn-Bru First Division stated that Dundee, who finished runners-up in the second tier last term, would replace the Ibrox club.

"That's not been decided as yet," Doncaster said. "What will happen is the Scottish Football League will meet next week.

"They will determine where there is a berth for Rangers and our clubs can deal with it accordingly."

Pars chairman John Yorkston had urged the authorities to make a decision with the SPL season kicking off on August 4 and SFL clubs playing in the Ramsden's Cup a week earlier.

"Everyone wants clarity, the season is nearly upon us," Doncaster said. "It's important we have as much clarity as possible as soon as we can.

"What our clubs have done today is give a clearer steer than people perhaps thought they should."