GLASGOW: Celtic have been crowned Scottish champions for a ninth successive time while Hearts have been relegated after the top-flight clubs reached a unanimous decision that the season could not be concluded.

The Scottish Professional Football League announced the widely-anticipated decision following a meeting with all clubs on Monday, with the campaign determined on a points per game average.

SPFL chairman Murdoch MacLennan said in a statement: “Firstly, I would like to take this opportunity to officially congratulate Celtic on their achievement of winning the Ladbrokes Premiership this season, and also to sincerely commiserate with Hearts on their relegation.”

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