Rumour Mill: Roy Keane | Rangers tour

Roy Keane, during his spell at Celtic in 2006. Picture: PA

‘Keane to Celtic’ talk backed by Mulgrew

CELTIC midfielder Charlie Mulgrew has given his backing to Republic of Ireland assistant coach Roy Keane, after the Irishman emerged as the frontrunner for the vacant managerial post at Parkhead.

Mulgrew said: “As a player, the club needs a big character and he definitely fits the bill. He’s a strong character and probably the type of guy that would be good for the job.

“We want a manager as soon as possible because it gets us prepared for the Champions League qualifiers.” (Sun)

Scotland can win in Dortmund, says Strachan

GORDON Strachan believes his resurgent Scotland side can beat Germany in their opening Euro 2016 qualifier in September.

The national coach said: “We will go into this Germany game in confident mood and that shows you that we have progressed. We now look ahead to a game like this and say ‘we can beat these’.

“We now feel that on our day we can beat anyone as long as we are organised, playing at our best and carrying a bit of luck.” (Herald)

Rangers announce pre-season trip to USA and Canada

RANGERS are set for a pre-season tour of North America, after the club announced a four-game trip across the Atlantic in July.

Rangers take on fourth-tier side Ventura County Fusion in California on 12 July, then USL side Sacremento Republic FC a week later. Rangers play Victoria Highlanders in British Columbia, Canada, on 19 July, with a final game to be confirmed two days later.

The trip will be preceded by friendlies against Buckie Thistle and Brora Rangers at the start of next month. (Mail)

Hearts knock back United’s Wilson bid

DUNDEE United have reportedly seen their £100,000 bid for Hearts defender Danny Wilson rejected by the Tynecastle club.

The Sun claim that Hearts rejected the bid, and countered with a swap deal that would send highly-rated United defender John Souttar to Edinburgh.

United agreed to sell Souttar to Sunderland for £600,000 earlier this year, but the deal was called off after the defender turned down the move. (Sun)

‘Don’t hurt Hibs with protests’, club warn fans

HIBERNIAN have warned fans not to cause lasting damage to the club as they continue protests calling for chairman Rod Petrie to step down.

In a statement, the club said: “The Board fully understands the level of supporter anger and frustration, has recognised for some months the imperative for change, and has been actively working towards this.

“The Club also expressed its deep concern that any actions to “starve” the Club of support during the challenging months ahead risk causing long-term damage.” (Various)

Scotland cap McArthur’s FA Cup medal stolen

AN FA Cup winner’s medal belonging to Scotland international midfielder James McArthur has been stolen from the star’s home.

McArthur won the medal in the 2013 final, when his Wigan Athletic side stunned Premier League champions Manchester City in a 1-0 win.

McArthur’s wedding rings for his upcoming marriage were also taken; police are investigating the theft. (Sun/Express)

Rumour Mill: Roy Keane | Rangers tour | Hibs