The Rumour Mill: Wednesday’s football news and gossip

Published on 24/10/2012 23:37

In today’s Rumour Mill: Ally McCoist calls for leniency as SPL set to punish Hearts for wage delay; Billy McKinlay turned down for Blackburn Rovers job after Steve Kean link; ‘hands-off’ warning issued over Steven Pressley, plus the rest of today’s football news and gossip

Ally McCoist in Hearts wage plea to SPL

Ally McCoist has called on the SPL to show leniency to Hearts as the Tynecastle club face a points deduction for failing to pay a number of staff members, including Hearts manager John McGlynn.

McCoist, whose own side are under a transfer embargo, believes punishing the club further would be unfair.

“The people suffering in this are the Hearts players, so if there is a heavy punishment, who is going to suffer? It will be the players again.

“It is a bit like what happened to Rangers. We were punished, and rightly so, but effectively it was those who had already been through the wringer who were punished again - the players and staff.” (Daily Express)

Blackburn Rovers pull out of Billy McKinlay bid due to Steve Kean link

Blackburn Rovers have been forced into a U-turn in their hunt for a new manager. Ex-Scotland international Billy McKinlay had been approached by the Ewood Park club with a view to replacing sacked Steve Kean, but fans voiced their opposition to the move once rumour circulated that the Fulham first-team coach was about to agree terms.

Blackburn have since told McKinley that they are no longer interested in recruiting him. It is believed that fans opposed the move due to McKinlay’s close relationship with ex-manager Kean, who worked together at Fulham under Chris Coleman. (Sun)

Aberdeen delay SPL voting reform

Aberdeen have blocked a move to change the SPL’s voting structure as the club look to reduce the number of clubs in the top flight and make the construction of their new stadium financially viable.

At present, an 11-1 majority is required for clubs to vote through major changes in the SPL. Aberdeen are believed to be against the 12-team set-up being increased, and are concerned that rival SPL teams would seek to increase that number.

A larger league would potentially signal the end of plans for Aberdeen’s proposed £32 million stadium. (Express)

IN BRIEF

• Former Scotland captain Barry Ferguson is to rejoin Birmingham City on loan. The 34-year-old former Rangers midfielder is seeking first team football after finding opportunities at Blackpool limited. (Express)

• Falkirk have issued a ‘hands-off’ warning to Burnley over alleged attempts to secure the services of manager Steven Pressley. The Bairns chairman Martin Ritchie said that nobody has contacted the club regarding Pressley. “We are exceptionally happy having Steven here and would not want that to change,” Ritchie added. (Express)