Celtic chief executive Peter Lawwell believes the Scottish Premier League would be a better division if them and Glasgow rivals Rangers both left.

Next month the English Premier League are set to discuss the idea of a two-tier set-up which could involve Celtic and Rangers – a move that has been championed by Bolton chairman Phil Gartside.

Lawwell revealed he would be prepared to enter Celtic at any level of the English game – and insists if they were to be joined by Rangers the SPL would reap the benefits.

“There are only two teams that can win the league and if you accept that competition is the lifeblood of sport, the Scottish model is seriously challenged,” said Lawwell.

“If Celtic and Rangers did play in another environment, I think it would enhance the game because you would have more competition.

“When there is something to play for, the crowds go up. And, if we move, there may be some sort of interim solidarity payment to see the clubs through the transition.”