In-demand forward wants Rangers transfer, Ex-Ibrox forward in Mourinho Celtic jibe, Old Firm tipped to challenge in 'British League', Hearts players to decide on trophy - Scottish Football Rumour Mill

The Scottish Cup is back this weekend with the quarter-finals stage taking top billing.

Friday's Scottish football news and headlines. Picture: SNS

There are four games over the course of Saturday, Sunday and Monday, while in League One and League Two the first split fixtures will take place with the former the division to watch in particular.

Here are all of Friday’s main Scottish football headlines and transfer news:

Former Aberdeen boss Derek McInnes believes the January move to Rangers for Scott Wright was “really good”. The former Dons manager wanted to keep the creative midfielder at Pittodrie for the rest of the season but Wright, who was out of contract this summer, joined the champions early. McInnes said: “He went to Rangers in the January window and I think he has gone there with a real purpose to impress right away.” (Scottish Sun)

Mark Warburton “would love to see” Celtic and former club Rangers join a British League. The ex-Ibrox boss reckons the Scottish giants would hold their own in such a league and even compete for the tile. He said: “There’s no doubt they could both compete at the highest level.” (talkSPORT)

Rangers have hit out at the “inconsistency of decision making” by the Scottish FA after the six game bans handed to the five Ibrox stars who breached Covid-19 guidelines were upheld. The league champions appealed the bans but it was eventually dismissed. Rangers said: “We urge the Scottish FA to be open minded to learn from other football authorities.” (Rangers FC)

Celtic striker Patryk Klimala has completed his £3.5million switch to New York Red Bulls. The £3.5million signing made just 28 appearances for the club who have recouped most of what they spent. (Various)

Former Rangers striker Kris Boyd jibed there is more chance of Jose Mourinho replacing Steven Gerrard than going to Celtic following his departure from Tottenham Hotspur. He said on Sky Sports: "If Steven Gerrard was to leave Rangers he might want to come there because that’s a bigger club. But Celtic? Absolutely no chance.” (Sky Sports)

Frank McAvennie has advised Celtic striker Odsonne Edouard to join AC Milan. The Frenchman could depart Parkhead this summer and the Serie A giants would be the ideal fit according to the former Celtic striker. He said: "If he went to AC Milan, Zlatan would get hold of him, that might be the best thing that could happen to Eddie.” (Daily Record)

Derek McInnes has revealed he had an opportunity to return to management but wanted to take some more rest to before ensuring he is ready for the next challenge that comes along. He said: "I just want to work for a good club with good people within that club and see where we go.” (Daily Record)

Reported Rangers target Fashion Sakala would prefer a move to Ibrox than France's Ligue 1. Lille want to bring the winger in on a pre-contract agreement but the Zambian international is keen on a move to the Scottish champions. (Voetbal)

Hearts players are set to hold a meeting on Friday to decide whether they lift the Scottish Championship trophy for leave it on the stand as their fans want them to do. The league winners are set to be presented with the trophy after Saturday’s clash with Inverness CT. (Evening News)