The Rumour Mill: Friday’s football news and gossip

Published on 07/09/2012 09:43

In today’s Rumour Mill: Celtic defender unhappy with pay situation; Aussie striker cleared to play for Rangers; Ivanovic confident Serbia can outperform Scotland; plus the rest of the day’s football news and gossip.

Rogne unhappy with Celtic deal

Thomas Rogne has revealed his frustration with the new deal offered to him by Celtic and could be set to walk away from the club for free. The Norwegian’s contract runs out at the end of the season and he is unhappy that months of negotiations have so far failed to offer him the terms he’s looking for. He said: “It’s really frustrating. I thrive at Celtic and definitely want to stay, but the salary will have to reflect my value. I have played when I have been healthy and feel I should be paid like others in the team.” (Sun)

Sandaza aims to ‘make history’ at Rangers

Fran Sandaza insists he did not join Third Division Rangers for the money and that he is more interested in becoming an Ibrox legend. The Spanish striker said: “Money is a part of football but I have signed for Rangers for four years for other reasons... It’s a long project and it’s a chance to make history.” (Sun)

• Australian striker Francesco Stella has been given international clearance from the Italian FA to begin his Rangers career. (Sun)

• Speculation was growing last night that Rangers could be soon be floated on the London stock market in a move that could raise up to £20m for the club. (Express)

Ivanovic confident ahead of Hampden showdown

Serbia defender Branislav Ivanovic has dismissed Scotland’s chances on Saturday. The Chelsea star said: “They (Scotland) become very disoriented when the ball is consistently played on the ground. I believe that we are technically and tactically the better team and if we can take advantage of our strengths, we won’t have any problems.” (Sun)

• Craig Levein’s defensive options for Scotland’s opening World Cup qualifier against Serbia at Hampden tomorrow have been further diminished by the withdrawal of Charlie Mulgrew, while goalkeeper Allan McGregor has admitted he has not yet fully recovered from the groin injury which had threatened his participation. (Scotsman)

Sheridan joins Killie

Kilmarnock have completed the signing of Cillian Sheridan on a two-year deal. The former Celtic and St Johnstone striker left Bulgarian outfit CSKA Sofia by mutual consent last month. The Irishman sealed his return to the Clydesdale Bank Premier League after a loan spell with Saints in the 2011-12 season. (Various)

Dundee snap up Easton

Dundee manager Barry Smith has signed former Hamilton and Burnley left-back Brian Easton. The 24-year-old was a free agent after his three-year contract with the Clarets expired in the summer. (Various)

IN BRIEF

• St Andrews-born, US-based businessman Dave Wares is fronting a bid to buy a controlling stake in St Mirren. (Express)

• Queen’s Park full-back Paul McGinn looks set to follow his brother John and join St Mirren. (Record)

• Shamed goalkeeper Luke McCormick, who spent four years in prison for killing two children in a drink-drive crash, could re-launch his career in Scotland. (Express)

• Motherwell have taken Belgian midfielder Axel Bossekota on trial. (Express)