The Rumour Mill: Wednesday’s football transfer news and gossip

Published on 05/12/2012 11:39

In today’s Rumour Mill: John McGlynn fires warning at forwards; Dunfermline players go another month without full pay; plus all the rest of today’s news and gossip

John McGlynn fires warning at John Sutton and Gordon Smith

John McGlynn sys that he has overlooked John Sutton and Gordon Smith for starting berths in his side because other players are more likely to keep him in his job. The two strikers have been left on the bench despite Hearts’ recent poor form in front of goal, but McGlynn is adamant that he has picked his best sides in recent weeks.


“It’s quite simple. If I thought they were better than the players I had, they would play. At the end of the day, the manager would lose his job if he doesn’t get results. I’m not trying to shoot myself in the foot by not playing players.”

Dunfermline players go another month without full pay, says Jim Jefferies

Dunfermline players have gone without full pay for the second month in a row, manager Jim Jefferies has revealed. Players initially received only 25 per cent of their wages before an additional payment was made to each player; the previous month, players only received two-thirds of their expected wage until the remainder was paid in the last week of October.

“The players have been fantastic,” said Jefferies, adding: “they’ve gone and delivered results. (The Sun)

“None of us are happy, but hopefully they’re paid up soon.”

Barcelona respect us, says Benfica keeper

Benfica goalkeeper Artur has said that his side is confident of progressing to the last 16 of the Champions League, adding that Barcelona and Benfica hold each other in “mutual respect”.

“We have a good chance of qualifying for the next stage of the Champions League and we will fight for it.

“There is no fear in Benfica. Of course, we have respect for Barcelona, but I think that feeling is mutual.”

Artur had earlier attracted criticism after slating Celtic’s “negative” football. (Daily Express)

Ex-Rangers stars leaves MLS side

Former Rangers midfielder Steven Smith has parted company with Portland Timbers after talks broke down over a new deal. The 27-year-old is set to return to Scotland after spending a season for the MLS side, who count another former Rangers players among its ranks - Kris Boyd. (Daily Record)