Massive Celtic manager development, Rangers star transfer interest boost, £5m star's Parkhead future, Aberdeen chief on £700k deal - Scottish Premiership Rumour Mill

Scotland were back to winning ways on Wednesday night with a confident 4-0 victory over Faroe Islands.

Thursday's Scottish football headlines and news. Picture: SNS

As the final competitive game prior to the European Championships it was a welcome boost and also puts the nation second in the World Cup qualifying group behind Denmark.

Attention this weekend turns back to the domestic game with the Scottish Cup being played over four days.

Here are all of Thursday’s main Scottish football headlines and news:

Aberdeen chairman Dave Cormack has talked up Scott Brown's “character and credentials” after facing questions from Dons fans following his support for former Celtic team-mate Aleksandar Tonev despite the Bulgarian being accused by Shay Logan of racist abuse, something the SFA found him guilty of. Brown has recently signed a player-coach contract to the club in the summer. Cormack said: “Scott has led players of all backgrounds for the best part of 15 years.” (Various)

Albian Ajeti is up against it to save his Celtic career. The striker, signed for £5million, has fallen out of favour. Big changes are expected this summer and former Celt Ramon Vega has called on the player to step up. He said: “It will be difficult for him, but I hope that he can do it and it is going to take an enormous effort.” (Daily Record)

Eddie Howe is really keen on becoming the next Celtic manager. So much so, he has started to do his own research into the club and what he will likely encounter behind the scenes. The former Bournemouth boss would likely jump to the front of the queue ahead of the likes of Thierry Henry and ROy Keane. (Scottish Sun)

The shake-up at Celtic continues off the pitch. Head of football operations Nicky Hammond has resigned having only been in the post for less than two years. A statement on the Celtic website confirmed Hammond had left to “pursue new opportunities. (The Scotsman)

Kieran Tierney admitted he “couldn’t help himself” to go against Steve Clarke’s instructions. The Arsenal star provided three assists in the 4-0 World Cup qualifying victory over Faroe Islands despite playing at centre-back. He said: “Everybody knows I like being high and wide putting crosses in. That's my game. Tonight I did a lot of that. It was good tonight (with Andy Robertson). I think the manager wanted me to sit a bit more but I couldn't help myself at times!" (Daily Record)

Filip Helander is not needed by Aston Villa. The Rangers defender has been linked with a move to the Premier League side but former striker Gabriel Agbonlahor reckons the Villains are well stocked in the position. He said: “I think we could use that money in more attacking areas.” (Football Insider)

St Mirren want interest in Jim Goodwin from Celtic, Rangers or England because it would show the club have been successful. Vice-chairman Jim Gillespie is targeting top six football for the Buddies consistently with Goodwin at he forefront of the plans. (Daily Record)

Dave Cormack has revealed he shelled out the reported £700k fee for Ronny Hernandez as part of a £1m loan to Aberdeen which was converted to stock. The Venezuelan struggled for game time at Pittodrie and is now playing in MLS with Atlanta United. (Aberdeen FC)