UEFA has ditched its 'safety net' plan for big clubs and reached a fresh agreement with the European Club Association to give two Champions League places to countries whose teams performed best in Europe.
But Scotland have received a boost as their golden slot appears safe as houses for the foreseeable future while the tournament group stage expands from 32 to 36 sides.
The initial plan to give two clubs with the highest ranking that did not qualify for a place in the tournament through their league has been scrapped.