The Rumour Mill: Thursday’s football news and gossip

McCoist hoping for Old Firm cup clash

Rangers boss Ally McCoist is relishing the possibility of drawing Celtic in the Scottish Communities League Cup after watching his side dump SPL leaders Motherwell out of the competition last night. The Ibrox boss said: “I wouldn’t care who it was, as long as it was a home draw. But the prospect of an Old Firm match is a completely different proposition. That would creat a massive amount of interest for sure.” (Sun)

Green in talks with Murray

Rangers chief executive Charles Green has revealed he held positive talks with Sir David Murray over co-operating on several issues. Green told RangersTV: “I met Sir David for the first time yesterday. Indeed I hadn’t even spoken with him before. We had a good chat and we talked about a number of subjects. Sir David is really keen to help the club. I welcome that and I appreciate the time we spent together. He has some clear views in terms of EBTs and there is no-one knows better than Sir David about that and he is prepared to do whatever is required to set the record straight.” (Various)

• They also discussed the sale of offices on Edmiston Drive, just next to Ibrox Stadium. (Various)

Fletcher ready for Scotland return

Sir Alex Ferguson told Craig Levein last night that he would welcome a return to international duty for Darren Fletcher, who made his first full Manchester United start in 10 months after battling against a chronic bowel condition. The Scotland manager travelled to Old Trafford to watch Fletcher in action and afterwards said: “I met Sir Alex before the game. The very fact Darren is playing this match for Manchester United tells you that he is ready to be involved in first-team football again ... Sir Alex said he would be happy for him to be involved.” (Mail)

Hearts defender set to leave?

Hearts defender Ryan McGowan’s agent fears he will be left with no option but to initiate a fresh move for the player unless progress can be made over contract talks. The player’s representative Lou Sticca insists there has been little contact with the Tynecastle outfit since an initial offer of fresh terms, which he described as “demeaning”, was tabled four weeks ago. (Scotsman)

• Hearts defender Danny Grainger has revealed his League Cup goal against Livingston was inspired by a fan who was giving him abuse earlier in the match. (Record)

Ambrose aims to emulate compatriots

Celtic’s Nigerian defender Efe Ambrose believes he can follow in the footsteps of his countrymen Kanu and John Obi Mikel in winning the Champions League. He said: “A couple of Nigerian players have won it and brought great pride to the country. I believe I can step into their shoes. That’s why I’m here.” (Various)