SPL chief executive Neil Doncaster believes their latest £80million television deal with Sky Sports and ESPN proves Scottish football is a product worth investing in even in a difficult economic climate.

New terms have been agreed with the broadcasters in a deal which takes effect from the start of next season until 2017.

Doncaster declined to discuss the figures involved, however the new contract is worth £80m, or £16m a season.

The SPL had previously secured a £13m annual commitment from the broadcasters when they signed the initial contract in 2009.

Doncaster is pleased the new deal will offer some extra financial stability to their 12 top-flight clubs for the next five years.

He said: "It's nice to talk about some good news stories in Scottish football. It's not often the case that we are here to do that but we are and that's great news.

"It's the financial stability that our clubs are crying out for.

"To have Sky and ESPN contracted for five years from 2012 gives our clubs the stability in a difficult economic climate and to plan for the future.

"It's a new five-year deal from 2012 to 2017. It's still the same 60 live games that ESPN and Sky show at present but it's improved terms. It's substantially improved terms financially.

"I can't give the precise details as to what the deal is worth but there will be more money coming into the SPL as a result of the deal.

"It's greatly encouraging and I think it shows the real confidence that exists, that Sky and ESPN have in Scottish football.

"It's real testament to the work that our clubs are continuing to put in."