The SPFL have announced the three clubs who have been invited to take part in next season's Premier Sports Cup - with Buckie Thistle included days after being ejected from the pyramid play-off.

The governing body have announced Buckie, Brechin City and East Kilbride have been invited to compete in the tournament group stage next term.

Should the clubs accept the invite then they will enter the draw for the group stage on Wednesday, May 29. 

And the Highland and Lowland outfits could then be paired with clubs including Aberdeen and Hibs. Celtic, Rangers and Hearts have all guaranteed European football meaning a bye into the next round. 

Two of Kilmarnock, St Mirren and Dundee will also advance without competing in the group stage due to European commitments.

Buckie's invite comes days after the club were booted out of the pyramid play-off due to not holding the necessary bronze club licence. East Kilbride advanced to the final as a result.

However, Buckie are eligible to compete in the Premier Sports Cup next season with a licence not required.

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An SPFL statement read: "The SPFL has today issued invitations to three clubs to take part in next season’s Premier Sports Cup.

"With five SPFL clubs again taking part in UEFA competitions next season, the group stage draw for the competition will involve the remaining 37 SPFL clubs from season 2023/24 and three further clubs invited to join the tournament.

"The SPFL has today invited Highland League winner Buckie Thistle, Highland League runner-up Brechin City, and Lowland League winner East Kilbride to join next season’s competition.

"This follows last season's competition, when the champions of the Lowland League and Highland League, plus one additional Lowland League club, were invited to participate.

"Once confirmed, the clubs will be added to the draw for the group stage of next year’s competition, which will take place on Wednesday 29 May at 1pm."