Rumour Mill: Celtic eye O'Dowda | Ashley '˜may have to sell Rangers shares'

Callum O'Dowda (right) in action for Oxford United against Forest Green. Picture: Getty Images

Hoops eye O’Dowda

CELTIC have been linked with Oxford United winger Callum O’Dowda, as a like-for-like replacement for James Forrest who is set to exit Parkhead in the summer.

The Republic of Ireland Under-21 star, who was courted by both Derby and Birmingham in January, is on Celtic’s radar after a number of eye-catching performances.

The 20-year-old scored twice in Oxford’s 3-0 win over Barnet last weekend and has scored seven goals this season. (Scottish Sun)

Ashley ‘may have to sell Rangers shares’

MIKE Ashley may be forced to sell his Rangers shares if Newcastle are relegated.

The Sports Direct boss insisted yesterday that he is ‘wedded’ to the Magpies and will stand by them if they are relegated - which would put his shares in Rangers in doubt due to stricter dual interest rules in the English Football League.

The Football League allows ownership of up to 10 per cent of other clubs, provided they are held for ‘investment purposes’. (Daily Record)

Hoops could face Barcelona in US

CELTIC will have their fixtures in the International Champions Cup confirmed at 3pm and could face Barcelona, Leicester and Inter Milan.

The US-based pre-season event expanded into China and Australia last season with some suggestions that the 2016 event could feature matches in Europe with Dublin mooted as a venue for Celtic. (Various)

Deila confident of retaining fans backing

RONNY Deila is confident of retaining the Celtic supporters’ backing in the wake of another stuttering performance against Kilmarnock. Tom Rogic’s last-minute goal secured the three points but some fans slammed Deila over his ‘exuberant’ celebrations.

But Deila believes his relationship with the support will remain strong in the coming weeks as he attempts to oversee the league and Scottish Cup double which may be necessary to hold onto his job beyond the summer. (The Scotsman)

Ex-Don Dougie Bell says Aberdeen can still catch Celtic

DOUGIE Bell believes the prophets of doom who have written off Aberdeen’s title challenge have called it four weeks too early.

The former Dons midfielder is adamant Celtic ’s lead, four points with a game in hand, can be trimmed in time for an all or nothing clash for his old club at Parkhead next month.

Bell is convinced Ronny Deila’s side will lose points and can be caught. He believes the league flag will be flying at Pittodrie next season. (Daily Record)

Farrell praises Shankland

St Mirren assistant manager David Farrell has praised striker Lawrence Shankland after his two wonder-strikes helped the Buddies to victory at Livingston.

While the spectacular strikes certainly caught the eye, Farrell says that there is much more to the on-loan youngster’s game.

He revealed that if Aberdeen wish the player to continue his development elsewhere again next season, then the Paisley club will be keen to retain his services. (Evening Times)

NEWS IN BRIEF

• Billy Mckay is confident that Dundee United will secure Scottish Premiership safety

• Hearts are to hold talks with Neil Alexander, Miguel Pallardo and Blazej Augustyn over the trio’s Tynecastle futures

• Dundee United are to boost security after Mixu Paatelainen’s comments about Dundee fans

Rumour Mill: Celtic eye O'Dowda | Ashley '˜may have to sell Rangers shares' | Celtic could face Barcelona in US