Rumour Mill: Old Firm colts | Dean Shiels

Old Firm colts plan blasted

Falkirk chairman Martin Ritchie has accused Scottish chief executive David Longmuir of acting “irresponsibly” by proposing that Celtic and Rangers reserve teams play in proposed new league structure.

Longmuir said that it was important that the Old Firm retain a presence should the Glasgow sides leave Scottish football. (Scotsman)

Dean Shiels sent to specialist

The Rangers midfielder is to see a specialist over feared cruciate knee ligament damage. He was stretchered off against Annan on Saturday. His injury is not believed to be career threatening. (Record)

Jim Leishman aiming to avoid ‘newco’ Dunfermline

The Dunfermline legend says he is keen to avoid the fate of Rangers who reformed after falling into liquidation last season. Leishman is charged with heading a steering group aimed at safeguarding the Fife club’s future. (Scotsman)

• Pars owner Gavin Masterton has flown to Switzerland for ten days leaving the threat of a winding up order hanging over the club over an unpaid tax bill of £134,000. The club have just two weeks to pay up to avoid liquidation. (Mail)

• Raith Rovers chairman Turnbull Hutton has been criticised by his own fans for offering cash-stricken Dunfermline money back for tickets. The Raith chairman offered to give their rivals money back if they sell over 2,000 away-end tickets. (Record)

Gary Locke to lead Hearts out at final

Hearts interim manager Gary Locke will remain in charge of the Tynecastle club for this weekend’s Scottish League Cup final against St Mirren. It is understood that a deal has been struck with former Dundee United boss Peter Houston to take over after Sunday’s final at Hampden. (Scotsman)

IN BRIEF

• Former Scotland defender David Weir has emerged as a leading candidate for the vacant Falkirk manager’s job

• Midfielder Paul Burns is set to sign a new contract with Queen of the South

• New Blackpool boss has recalled Barry Ferguson to the first team after he was frozen out by previous managers

• Celtic defender Mikael Lustig is back in full training

• Cowdenbeath have signed former Sheffield Wednesday midfielder Sean McAllister, 25, until the end of the season

Rumour Mill: Old Firm colts | Dean Shiels | Dunfermline