Further coronavirus testing is being implemented for the latter stages of the Betfred Cup.

Scotland's European competitors Celtic, Rangers, Motherwell and Aberdeen enter the tournament at the last-16 stage following the group campaign.

And the SPFL have confirmed that more protocols have been put in place to deal with any potential new cases. The same rules apply from round one in that any team drawn against a Premiership club is required to swab test its players in the 168-hour period prior to that clash, with results provided to the League by midday two days prior to the tie.

Any players who test positive are required to self-isolate, as well as any close contact stars.

Failure to field a team will, like round one, result in a 3-0 defeat awarded. In the unlikely event that neither side can field a team, a lot will be drawn to decide who progresses.

Neil Doncaster, chief executive of the SPFL, said: “Given the fact that the fixture calendar this season is the tightest in living memory, we have had to take unprecedented steps to ensure that the Betfred Cup matches have definitive results based on the original fixture dates. 

“We’re grateful for the vigilance of all clubs involved as we cope with the ongoing and significant challenges presented by Covid-19. 

“The level of co-operation and mutual support from clubs across the divisions is enormously encouraging. Everyone recognises that we depend on each other to protect the game, so that we can get back to some degree of normality as soon as possible.

“There will undoubtedly continue to be challenges as we progress through the season, but everyone in the game is determined to play their part in ensuring that the best possible football, in the safest possible conditions, is delivered across all divisions and in every competition.”