The Scottish Premier League has appointed Neil Doncaster as its new chief executive.

The Scottish Premier League has appointed Neil Doncaster as its new chief executive.

The 39-year-old, who served as Norwich City chief executive until May, will work alongside chairman Lex Gold, who has plans to retire. Englishman Doncaster has also sat on the boards of both the Rugby Association and Rugby League. "I've worked in football for 15 years and I'm excited about playing a part in developing the Scottish game," he said.

"The SPL already has excellent standing in European football, but like all football organisations it faces many complex issues and challenges.

"The role attracted international interest"

"I am looking forward to working hard with the board, our member clubs, our partners and the SPL staff to continue to improve our competition and push Scottish football forward."

Gold, Hibernian chairman Rod Petrie and Rangers chief executive Martin Bain formed the SPL sub-committee that carried out the recruitment process over the past six months.

The SPL chairman said: "We have been engaged in a detailed recruitment process for some time now. The role attracted international interest.

"Neil was the unanimous choice of those involved in the process. He has had excellent experience in club football with Norwich City and with his involvement with the FA and the Rugby League.

"That experience will hold him in good stead to lead the SPL team and deal with the challenges that lie ahead."