Rumour Mill: South Korea eye Lennon

Former Celtic manager Neil Lennon is a target for the South Korea managerial position. Picture: TSPL

Neil Lennon is a surprise target for South Korea

Neil Lennon is on a shortlist to become the new South Korea manager. The former Celtic manager quit at the end of last season after guiding the Parkhead side to another Scottish title. Since then, he’s been a pundit at the World Cup in Brazil and was also linked to jobs in the United Arab Emirates, with Al Shabab targeting him. But he’s emerged as a strong candidate to take charge of Asian giants South Korea, who are on the lookout for a new boss. Hong Myung-bo quit after the World Cup after the Koreans’ lamentable displays in Brazil, where they finished bottom of their group. And Lennon is one of a few  European names on their shortlist for the role. (Scotsman)

Southampton launch bid for Fraser Forster

Southampton have launched a £7.5 million move for Celtic keeper Fraser Forster. The English Premier League side have opened talks to sign the England star - and are confident they will get their man. It is believed however, that their present valuation is too low for the Parkhead club, who rate Forster at £9 million minimum. Celtic will also have the 25 per cent sell on clause in mind after they bought the striker from Newcastle for £2 million in 2012. (Sun)

Virus hell for young Rangers star Lewis MacLeod

Lewis Macleod has revealed for the first time how he feared for his footballing future when he was struck down by a mystery virus. The rangers midfielder was hit by the bug halfway through last season. He went from being the club’s one to watch to their forgotten man in the title run in. Now, finally, he’s back in business. He said: “A lot of people , even the doctors themselves, admitted it could have been the end for me. It was a frightening time. I tried to put the possibilities to the back of my mind but I remember being asked how I would feel if the results didn’t go according to plan and I thought about it then. That was scary but now I have got a second chance.” (Express)

Ronny Deila says progression is key to bringing in new players

Ronny Deila has warned that his transfer wish-list will become irrelevant if Celtic don’t qualify for the Champion’s League group stages. The Norwegian takes charge of his first game on Scottish soil tonight when the Parkhead side seek to close out their second qualifying tie with KR Reykjavik at Murrayfield. Deila has warned that only by progressing through the qualifying stages will he retain a prospect of being handed the funds to land the calibre of players he covets. He said: “Of course, qualifying for the Champions League is very important when it comes to attracting players. That’s a huge thing and is a big target for us.” (Various)

Brian Laudrup has called for Ibrox chiefs to get fans on board

Brian Laudrup has appealed to Rangers chiefs to patch up their differences with supporters - and work together to restore the Ibrox club to its former glory. He said: “I just hope Rangers supporters can look forward to watching the club playing at the level they deserve to be in the top flight and in Europe again soon. I hope they will be back where they once were soon. They love the club so much, I am keeping my fingers crossed that is what’s going to happen. I have read online there are still problems off the park and there are still issues between the club and supporters. I hope these can be sorted out soon.” (Times)

News in brief:

• Aberdeen have signed Brighton winger Jeffrey Monakana on loan until January. (Express)

• Alan Stubbs has backed Hibs kid and winger Alex Harris to be a future star. (Record)

• Steven Fletcher has handed Scotland manager Gordon Strachan a boost by insisting his injury woes are behind him. (Record)

• Patrice Evra has signed for Juventus in a £1 million move. (Record)

Rumour Mill: South Korea eye Lennon | Forster bid