9am Briefing: Lennon praises youngster Thompson

Celtic manager Neil Lennon last night heaped praise on two-goal Josh Thompson before admitting he would have left the youngster out if he had any fit defenders.

Lennon revealed he had a chat the night before the game with Thompson and praised the 19-year-old for epitomising the fighting spirit necessary after the club's worst cup result in their 122-year history, losing 2-0 to Ross County.

Smith calls for split to be scrapped

Rangers boss Walter Smith last night waded into the SPL fixtures row and called for the split to be scrapped.

The Ibrox manager is unhappy that his side have three away games in a row. Rangers face Dundee United tonight and need just six points to secure back-to-back SPL titles.

Dods hails managers

Dundee United star Darren Dods say the Tannadice dugouts tonight will be filled by the two outstanding managers of the SPL season.

Dods believe that Rangers boss Walter Smith is the only man capable of beating Dundee United's Peter Houston - who has been named manager of the month - to the end of season award.

Fans facing ticket scramble

Rangers fans will face a massive ticket scramble to see their side win the SPL - if they don't retain the title within the next two weeks.

It has emerged that Hearts are to receive less than 1000 briefs for the final Edinburgh derby of the season at Easter Road and the Light Blue legions are facing a similar battle for briefs.