Rangers and Scotland captain Barry Ferguson has welcomed the SPL's decision to move the start date of the new season to assist the national team. "It's vital," said Ferguson.

"It gives us a full week to prepare. Before, it would have meant only being together for two or three days.

"It gives the gaffer seven days to spend with us and get us prepared for the game against Norway."

Ferguson was also pleased with the opportunity to meet with the rest of the Scotland squad for a gathering earlier this month in preparation for next month's World Cup qualifier against Holland.

He added: "We didn't train on the Monday because the weather was so bad but it gets all the guys together.

"We were able to train at Dens Park on the Tuesday and it was good to see everyone.

"Hopefully we will prepare right because it's a massive game over in Holland."