Rumour Mill: Rangers| Jack Harper| Sam Nicholson

Midfielder Sam Nicholson has previously been scouted by Evertonian hero Joe Royle. Picture: SNS

Mark Warburton insists Rangers aren’t playing dirty

The Rangers boss was quick to dimiss accusations of ‘inappropriate’ action over bids for Hibs midfielder Scott Allen.

The Glasgow club have had two bids knocked back by their Easter Road rivals, with a third expected early next week.

Discussing their pursuit of the 23-year old Allen, Warburton said “We have been careful to do things by the book.” (Various)

Ronny Deila insists it’s about ‘prestige’

The Celtic manager looked to make clear that Celtic’s European adventure is about more than the money it produces. The prestige of group-stage qualification forever trumps the pounds sterling that it would bank, according to the Norwegian. “If you took away the money it is the atmosphere to really experience the Champions League and fight against the best teams in the world that is the most motivating.” (Scotsman)

Jack Harper looks to prove his worth Highly touted 19-year-old Jack Harper is set to win over fans at his new club in south of England, with his combination of Spanish flair and Scottish workmanship.

The young player, born in Malaga to Barrhead parents, moved from Spanish giants Real Madrid following the scrapping of the Los Blancos’ C team. Instead, Harper has looked to Brighton & Hove Albion in the English Championship for a chance at regular football.

“I would say I’m a natural goalscorer” Harper told the press.

“I have the natural Spanish technique but I work like a Scotsman” (Daily Record)

Sam Nicholson looks to impress against Toffees

Hearts midfielder Sam Nicholson wowed many fans with a 30-yard screamer against city rivals Hibs last summer - but he also may have caught the eye of Everton legend Joe Royle, who was in the stands that day.

Roberto Martinez’s Everton side were said to be interested in Nicholson, but no bid was made. However, the 20-year-old will have the chance to impress the Catalan manager again as Hearts play Everton in a friendly today.

“The Everton game is a chance to show what I can do. Everton are a great team, a top side in the English Premier league” said Nicholson. (Daily Star)

Niall McGinn is relishing Aberdeen’s European adventure

The Aberdeen striker spoke about the Dons Europa League qualification campaign, following their aggregate victory over HNK Rijeka this week.

Aberdeen are set to face FC Kairat from the Kazakhstan Premier League in their next round, and McGinn is condfident of their chances to go further.

“Looking at our next opponents, they are all beatable” said the 28-year-old striker

“We all just want to do better than last year and try to get to the group. For us as players and a team, we would love that.” (Scottish Daily Mail)