Rumour Mill: Ally McCoist backing | Aiden McGeady

NEWLY-crowned Third Division champions Rangers should stick with manager Ally McCoist, says defender Chris Hegarty, while former Celtic winger Aiden McGeady reveals his desire for a move to England

Chris Hegarty backs Ally McCoist after title win

Rangers defender Chris Hegarty has backed Ally McCoist to continue at the helm at Rangers after the club secured the Third Division title on Saturday after drawing 0-0 at Montros. The Rangers manager has attracted criticism for the club’s stuttering campaign despite the title victory, with losses to Stirling Albion and Annan Athletic sticking in the craw. But the 20-year-old defender reckons McCoist is the man to lead the Ibrox club after one of the most eventful seasons in the club’s history.

“The gaffer has dealt well with everything thrown at him, he’s definitely the right man for the job. It’s been difficult for him with the transfer embargo and we’re 22 points clear and have won the league so you can’t say anything negative about him.” (Daily Record)

Aiden McGeady reveals Premier League ambition

Spartak Moscow winger Aiden McGeady has revealed his desire for a move to the English Premier League. The former Celtic midfielder left Parkhead in 2010 to sign for the Russian top flight outfit, but has made clear that he does not intend to extend his time in Moscow beyond 2014, when his current contract expires.

I have ambitions to play in England and have made it clear I won’t be signing a new contract,” McGeady said.

McGeady is likely to attract interest from several Premier League clubs, with potential interest from the likes of Wigan, Everton and Sunderland, who have all been linked with the Republic of Ireland international in the past. (Sky Sports)

Falkirk nearer to appointing Steven Pressley replacement

Falkirk have claimed they will announce their new manager within the next two weeks. The Bairns, who lost Steven Pressley after the former Hearts and Celtic player agreed termn with Coventry City, said they have drawn up a shortlist of three “excellent candidates” who could all take charge by the time of Falkirk’s Scottish Cup semi-final match against Hibernian.

Among the candidates thought to be in contention is John McGlynn, who left Hearts in February. Former Livingston manager Gary Bollan and Brechin boss Ray MacKinnon are also rumoured to be among those linked to the post. (The Sun)

Falkirk in SFA league reconstruction plea

Falkirk have admitted that they would consider defecting from the SFL and joining an SPL2 league should efforts to push through league reconstruction proposals for next season fail.

The First Division club also called on the SFA to intervene in order for a consensus to be reached on the plans.

Clubs are currently divided on plans to establish a 12-12-18 league system, which would see several First Division clubs benefit to the tune of £300,000.

If the 12-12-18 proposals are thwarted, it is feared that clubs may form a breakaway SPL2 - raising the prospect of Rangers being fast-tracked up the divisions via invitation to the newly-formed league. (Daily Mail)

IN BRIEF

• Former Dunfermline striker Andy Barrowman has been signed by Dundee. The 28-year-old was among seven players made redundant by the Pars after administrators were appointed at East End Park. (The Sun)