Coach backed to replace Steven Gerrard at Rangers, Neil Lennon gives transfer update, Hearts will 'definitely' talk to out-of-contract star - Scottish Premiership Rumour Mill

Tuesday’s Scottish football news and gossip

Rangers manager Steven Gerrard. Picture: SNS

Beale backed to replace Gerrard

Former Rangers striker Kyle Lafferty believes Michael Beale would be the ideal replacement for Steven Gerrard if the Ibrox boss was to leave the club. (Scottish Sun)

Celtic looking at other options

Celtic boss Neil Lennon has admitted the club are currently looking at “other options” in the goalkeeping department. The club have a deal agreed with Southampton for Fraser Forster’s return but the player is yet to commit to a move back north. (The Scotsman)

Lennon behind fixture plan

Neil Lennon has backed the SPFL’s decision to hold the first Old Firm clash of the season until October so it may be possible for fans to attend the fixture at Celtic Park. (Daily Record)

Doncaster calls for green light

Neil Doncaster has called for the Scottish Government to given Scottish clubs the green light to return to playing matches with teams waiting for permission to play closed-door friendlies. (Daily Record)

Hearts will definitely talk to Nicholson

Robbie Neilson confirmed Hearts will “definitely” be speaking to Sam Nicholson about a possible Hearts return. The winger is a free agent after leaving MLS side Colorado Rapids. (The Scotsman)

Neilson to focus on wide areas

Robbie Neilson plans to reinforce Hearts’ squad with three or four new signings and is focused heavily on creative wide players. (The Scotsman)

Croatia boss gives Katic boost

Croatia manager Zlatko Dalic has revealed he will be keeping a spot in the national team open for when Rangers defender Nikola Katic returns from injury. The centre-back is thought to have suffered a torn cruciate ligament. (Daily Record)

Dundee United appeal

Dundee United have appealed to clubs across Scotland to help them fund a legal defence against Hearts and Partick Thistle. Along with fellow promoted sides Raith Rovers and Cove Rangers, they are now asking for help as costs threaten to spiral out of control. (The Scotsman)