Rumour Mill: Hearts | John Brown

HEARTS MANAGEMENT CHANGEOVER LATEST

• Craig Levein has admitted the decision to axe Gary Locke was taken three months ago and that axing the Tynecastle manager was “one of the worst things he has ever had to do” (Record)

• Head coach Robbie Neilson says he will have full control over first team selection despite Craig Levein holding the director of football role.

He said that he will discuss selection and tactics with Levein but the final decision will rest with him. (Scotsman)

• New Hearts owner Ann Budge says she resisted investing in the Foundation of Hearts after joining four years ago but the passion of those involved convinced her to step up to the mark (Scotsman)

• Budge says the club must learn to live within their means as they bid to return to the top flight. (Sky Sports)

• Craig Levein yesterday criticised the trend of football clubs to constantly change their manager and said that he wanted to introduce a Liverpool ‘boot room’ style of culture where only those familiar with he workings of a club would be promoted (Scotsman)

John Brown backs Union of Fans

Former Rangers coach John Brown has become the latest former player to back the Union of Fans which is urging supporters to withold season ticket money unless security is given over Ibrox and Murray Park. Brown says the fact that John Greig no longer attends matches speaks volumes of the current regime. (Record)

Tommy Craig appointed manager of St Mirren

Tommy Craig has been appointed internally as the new manager of the Paisley club following the departure of Danny Lennon. The veteran coach will be assisted by Jim Goodwin and Gary Teale.

Bookies favourite Ian Murray opted to stay at Dumbarton where he has signed a new contract. (Scotsman)

Rangers win youth cup

Rangers won the SFA Youth Cup for the first time in six years last night as their under-20s team beat Hearts in a penalty shoot out in which all 22 players had to take a penalty kick. (Scotsman)

IN BRIEF

• Motherwell have resigned defender Stephen McManus on a two-year contract

• Livingston have released 18 players but have retained 16 players for next season

• Queens Park have released seven players after the club finished bottom of the Scottish football league

• On loan Celtic misfit Tom Rogic has been called up to the Australian World Cup squad. Rogic is currently on loan with Melbourne Victory.

• Rangers youngster Fraser Aird has opted to play for Canada as opposed to Scotland

• Ian McCall has registered an interest in the vacant Morton manager’s post

Rumour Mill: Hearts | John Brown | St Mirren