THE SFA have reacted angrily to the SPL's decision to kick off next season on August 8 - just four days before Scotland play Norway in a crucial World Cup qualifier.

National boss George Burley had wanted the top flight campaign to get underway earlier to give his players time to prepare properly for the potentially vital game in Oslo.

And senior SFA officials are fuming they were not consulted by their SPL counterparts over the kick-off decision.

A spokesman said: "In February each year, a fixture co-ordination group comprising representatives of the Scottish FA, SPL and SFL meet to discuss and approve the fixtures for the coming season.

"The meeting for season 2009-10 has not taken place.

"It is, therefore, unprecedented that the SPL have - without any consultation - made this announcement.

"As far as we are concerned, this meeting should go ahead in February - and all partners should have their say in deciding the shape of the football season.

"One of our key priorities for next season is giving Scottish players the proper time to prepare for the crucial World Cup qualifier against Norway on August 12."

However, the SPL has hit back at those allegations and claimed they have always decided on the start date for their campaign.

A spokesman said: "We do have a consultation meeting with the SFA and SFL where we sit round and see where all the games slot in throughout the course of the season.

"But the start date of the season is a matter for SPL board approval and the SFA do not have a role in approving that."

The SPL have confirmed reintroducing the winter break in season 2010/11 is being examined.