Rumour Mill: Griffiths still fears sack | Rangers want Knox

Leigh Griffiths has netted an astonishing 38 goals this season but still fears the sack. Picture: SNS Group

Griffiths fears losing everything despite goals

CELTIC striker Leigh Griffiths admits he still fears he could lose everything at Parkhead despite being odds-on favourite to sweep the board with player of the year awards after a stunning season that has produced 38 goals.

The forward is still burdened by a final warning dished out by the Hoops two years ago for his behaviour ahead of an Edinburgh derby where he was caught on camera singing an offensive song about ex-Hearts player Rudi Skacel.

Griffiths said: “My behaviour that day ensured I was down to my last warning at Celtic. I couldn’t afford to make any more mistakes and at that moment I knew I had to grow up.

“Of course that final warning was a huge scare. I knew I had to knuckle down and get on with it.” (The Scotsman)

Gers step up pursuit of Livi starlet

MARK Warburton has hinted that Rangers could make a summer move for Livingston youngster Matthew Knox, after the 16-year-old helped the Lions to a 1-0 win over the Ibrox side earlier this week.

Speaking to Sky Sports, Warburton said: “Matthew is a talented young player, there’s talks going on – obviously. As a club we have to make sure we get the best young talents and bring them in.

“We have to look to get the best possible player available throughout the age groups.” (Various)

Ashley to abandon King court case

MIKE Ashley could end up paying legal fees for the SFA and Dave King after appearing to back out of a court case against the Rangers chief.

It has been reported that the Sports Direct tycoon’s lawyers are set to abandon a bid to force a judicial review of the SFA’s decision to pass King as fit and proper for the role of Rangers chairman.

And Ashley could be made to pay a six-figure sum in total to cover the legal costs of King and the SFA as well as himself. (Daily Record)

Stewart still to decide on future

DUNDEE striker Greg Stewart has hinted that he is ready to turn down a contract extension at Dens Park which will undoubtedly alert potential suitors, including Rangers.

The 26-year-old striker has one year left on his deal at Dundee and his stock is high after an excellent season forming a highly profitable partnership with Kane Hemmings.

A number of English Championship clubs have been keeping an eye on him, but he could be swayed by a strong Rangers interest after spending part of his development with the Ibrox club. (The Scotsman)

St Mirren want Nade

ST MIRREN are believed to be weighing up a move for Dumbarton forward Christian Nade.

The ex-Hearts striker has scored seven goals for Stevie Aitken’s side since joining in Dumbarton and Buddies boss Alex Rae is set to hold talks with the much-travelled forward at the end of the season. (Scottish Sun)

O’Neill calm over Keane rumours

MARTIN O’Neill is keeping calm despite talk linking assistant Roy Keane with the Celtic job.

Former Hoops boss O’Neill, who led the Republic of Ireland to Euro 2016, said: “I can’t speak for Roy and possibly can’t even speak for myself either. I’m in this job at the moment and am enjoying it immensely.

“I think like everything else there’s always going to be a bit of speculation around everybody. Roy had some interest from Celtic the last time around.” (Scottish Sun)

Wee Steelmen crush Hearts to win Youth Cup

MOTHERWELL’s youth side put five past Hearts as the wee Steelmen lifted the Scottish Youth Cup.

Goals from Dylan Mackin, David Ferguson, Robbie Leitch and Daryl Falconer and an own goal from Daniel Baur gave ‘Well an impressive win over a Hearts side containing Jordan McGhee and Dario Zanatta, who scored the Hearts goals.

The victory is Motherwell’s first ever Youth Cup win. (The Scotsman)

McGinn happy to stay at Hibs

HIBERNIAN midfielder John McGinn has said he will happily stay at Hibernian next season even if the Easter Road side fail to win promotion to the Premiership.

McGinn, a nominee for PFA Scotland’s Young Player of the Year said: “I have got three years left at Hibs so unless someone tells me otherwise then I will be a Hibs player.

“It is a privilege to be at a club the size of Hibs. I am just determined to get Hibs back playing top-flight football.” (BBC Sport)

NEWS IN BRIEF

• Queen of the South boss Gavin Skelton has said the Doonhamers will be fired up for their return to Easter Road after Hibernian’s controversial victory last time out

• Dunfermline skipper Andy Geggan has revealed he turned down an approach from Fleetwood Town to extend his Pars stay

• The SFA are considering a two-year trial of video technology to assist referees - and it oculd be in place by January 2017

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Rumour Mill: Griffiths still fears sack | Rangers want Knox | Ashley to drop King court case