The Scottish Premier League yesterday announced that it has appointed an independent commission to inquire into alleged Employee Benefit Trust payments and arrangements made by Rangers in relation to players during the period from 2000 until 2011.

The commission will determine whether during that period in relation to alleged EBT payments and arrangements for players, Rangers were in breach of the relevant SPL Rules. In the event that the independent commission decides that such breach or breaches occurred, the commission will have powers to determine what sanctions, if any, are appropriate.

The SPL investigation was launched in early March and delayed for months by the failure of Rangers' administrators to hand over documents.

There has been talk of the Ibrox club being stripped of titles if found guilty and the issue is a sticking point regarding Rangers newco's bid for membership of the Scottish Football Association.

n Greek international midfielder Pantelis Kafes has begun training with Rangers as he attempts to secure a contract with the Ibrox club.

The former international took part in a full training session with the Rangers first team squad at their training base in Auchenhowie on Thursday.