The Rumour Mill: Thursday’s football news and gossip

In today’s Rumour Mill: Rangers unhappy with SPL over proposals; Motherwell winger attracts interest; SFA in war of words with former ref; plus the rest of the day’s football news and gossip.

Rangers takeover announcement delayed

Rangers’ administrators have blamed the SPL for holding up the sale of the club as a result of proposed serious changes to the league’s financial rules, as the governing body introduces hefty new penalties for clubs in insolvency situations and those who fail to keep their financial affairs in order. (Scotsman)

SPL meeting on voting structure delayed

Kilmarnock chairman Michael Johnston has stated that the vote on potential changes to the Scottish Premier League’s voting structure will be carried over until the next meeting on 30 April. (BBC)

Well winger watched

Premiership clubs Liverpool, Aston Villa, Sunderland and Swansea are keeping tabs on Motherwell winger Chris Humphrey. (Sun)

SFA hits back in ref row

The Scottish Football Association’s head of referee development has hit back at comments from Charlie Richmond after the former official claimed he had been the victim of a culture of favouritism. John Fleming, the SFA’s head of referee development said: “I consider his comments an affront to the work undertaken by the Scottish FA to promote and support referees at all levels. I am sure there will be plenty of Charlie’s former colleagues who will feel misrepresented by his comments.” (Various)

County celebrate title

First Division champions Ross County celebrated the title in style by extending their unbeaten run to an astonishing 30 games. Dundee’s slip-up on Tuesday meant the Dingwall men were already assured of promotion. (Scotsman)

Hamill out for season

Hearts’ Jamie Hamill faces months of rehabilitation after rupturing his cruciate knee ligament, the Tynecastle club have confirmed. Hamill suffered the injury at Hearts’ indoor training facility yesterday and was immediately sent for a scan. (Scotsman)

IN BRIEF

• Both Hibs and Hearts are interested in Lithuanian goalkeeper Ernestas Setkus. (Express)

• Aberdeen midfielder Nicky Low is on the verge of signing a new one-year deal at Pittodrie. (Daily Express)