Rumour Mill: Mikael Lustig | Scotland v Nigeria

MIKAEL Lustig is in talks to extend his stay at Celtic, Gordon Strachan praises his Scotland side after their draw with Nigeria, and Hearts eye up a former Rangers star, plus more from around the SPFL in Thursday’s Rumour Mill

Celtic defender Mikael Lustig. Picture: Robert Perry

Mikael Lustig in talks with Celtic

SWEDISH defender Mikael Lustig has revealed that he is in discussions with Celtic over an extension to his contract.

Lustig, who signed from Rosenberg in January 2012, said: “I have a year left on my contract, and we are discussing an extension.

“We will see if we reach agreement or what happens but there is no stress. I expect to be playing for Celtic next season.” (Record)

Scotland v Nigeria: “As good as it gets”, says Strachan

SCOTLAND manager Gordon Strachan has praised his side’s performance in their 2-2 draw against Nigeria

A late goal from Uche Nwofor snatched the victory from Scotland, who led twice through Charlie Mulgrew and a Azubike Egwuekwe own goal.

Strachan said: “In terms of positive play, that’s as good as it gets from us. We have been terrific as a unit before and had a few chances in games but, overall, there was a bit of flair and imagination tonight against a really top side.” (Scotsman)

Hearts may move for ex-Ger Alexander

FORMER Rangers and Scotland goalkeeper Neil Alexander could be set for a return to Scottish football with Hearts.

The 36-year-old keeper was released by Crystal Palace earlier this week, and The Sun report that the Tynecastle side are keen to snap Alexander up after allowing Jamie MacDonald to leave Gorgie.

Alexander left Rangers last summer after failing to agree a new contract with the club, having featured heavily in their League Two campaign in 2012-13. He has been capped three times by the national side. (Sun)

Celtic manager search: Keane new favourite

FORMER Celtic midfielder Roy Keane has been installed as favourite to become the club’s next manager by bookmakers after a major bet was placed on the Irishman yesterday afternoon.

Michael Laudrup is also thought to remain in the frame, while Spanish target Oscar Garcia has reportedly been contacted over the vacant post at Southampton.

The Mail report that a number of Celtic’s possible candidates are also in consideration for the role at St Mary’s, a fact which is slowing the Parkhead search. (Scotsman/ Mail)

Rangers’ Peralta could miss World Cup

RANGERS midfielder Arnold Peralta faces a fitness test later today which could rule him out of the Honduras World Cup squad.

Peralta, who has said he may leave Rangers after the tournament after a stop-start first season, is suffering with a thigh strain.

The Honduran FA said: “Arnold will undergo further tests today as we try to establish how serious the injury is and how long he will be missing for.” (Record)

Dundee eye Kevin Thomson move

MIDFIELDER Kevin Thomson has become the latest former Hibernian player to be linked with a move to Dundee.

Thomson, who was released in the post-relegation clear-out at Easter Road, is reportedly a target for Dens Park boss Paul Hartley as he builds his squad for next season’s Premiership campaign.

Dundee have also been linked with former Hibs captain James McPake, who is also available on a free transfer. (Sun)