Scottish football clubs could face a troublesome future as a result of the Brexit vote, a politician has warned.

SNP MSP Fulton MacGregor said that the weaker pound and problems with work permits could prevent foreign players coming to the Scottish Premiership.

And Mr MacGregor, MSP for Coatbridge and Chryston in North Lanarkshire, said that independence may be Scottish football's only saviour.

Last January, Scottish clubs used the transfer window to strengthen their squads to bring in foreign players as part of permanent transfers and loan arrangements.

But Mr MacGregor warned the financial situation, as well as a much tougher work permit system in the event of a hard Brexit, could make Scottish clubs suffer.

He said: "All football fans will have their favourite signings from Europe with the likes of Henrik Larsson, Fernando Ricksen, Rudi Skacel and Franck Sauzee shining for Scottish clubs.

"But with the Tories determined to drag Scotland out of Europe, it could become increasingly difficult for our clubs to attract the stars of the future.

"The weaker pound and the potential of work permits for EU citizens could mean that players choose Poland over Pittodrie or France over Firhill.

"Even the famous Bosman ruling that allows Scottish clubs to pick up free transfers came from an EU court."

The popular Football Manager game has included Brexit scenarios for players in its latest edition in an effort to show how it may affect football in the UK.

Mr MacGregor said that as a result some players of the game may recognise the need for Scottish independence.

He added: "Of course, just as many Football Manager players will have found, if Theresa May won't keep us in the single market then independence might be the only way to stay in Europe's top tier."