Alex McLeish takes blame for 4-0 loss: ‘I told them to pass it’

Alex McLeish has accepted full responsibility for his side falling to a bracing 4-0 home defeat to Belgium. The manager admitted individual mistakes cost his side but he took the blame for demanding his players try to keep possession of the ball rather than play it long. (The Scotsman)

Celtic FC order review of Old Firm game supporter crush

Celtic have ordered an independent review from sports event safety management consultants after a crush before the Old Firm game last weekend. (various)

Barry Ferguson: I’m glad Rangers’ nasty edge is back

  Former Rangers star Barry Ferguson has said he welcomes attempts by Steven Gerrad to turn “Ibrox into a fortress where players once again fear to tread.”

Ferguson wrote: “A case in point being that incident surrounding Allan McGregor kicking out at Kristoffer Ajer last weekend.

Scotland boss Alex McLeish. Picture: John Devlin

He added: “I think these incidents are just a symptom that Rangers have got back that wee nasty side in them that I think is needed. Something that’s been sadly lacking in recent years.” (Daily Record)

Eddie Gray on why SFA must stay at Hampden - ‘our mecca’

  Scotland legend Eddie Gray has told of his belief that the national side must stay at Hampden. In an interview with The Scotsman Gray said, “Listen, I know the capacity has been reduced. I know we’ll never get such big crowds again. I know the upkeep is expensive. But it’s our mecca and I don’t think we should be giving it up.” (The Scotsman)

Kyle Lafferty mocked by Chris Sutton after ‘going for 55’ boast

  Former Celtic star Chris Sutton took aim at Kyle Laffery after the striker told how the Ibrox dressing room believed title 55 was on its way.

Sutton wrote: “when are Rangers going to learn? It’s not exactly a surprise to see Lafferty is the one to open his mouth and let his belly rumble, and, sure enough, he heads back to Northern Ireland and can’t help himself when it comes to making wild claims.

“Someone should have a word with him and remind him where this has got Rangers before.

Rangers hero Nacho Novo reveals he suffered stroke just weeks after heart attack

  Former Rangers star Nacho Novo has revealed he is fighting back from a stroke - just months after surviving a near fatal heart attack.

The Ibrox legend also told of his daily battle with depression and admitted his life has not been the same since leaving Rangers in 2010. (The Daily Record)

Hearts defender Aaron Hughes leaves Northern Ireland squad with injury

Veteran Hearts defender Aaron Hughes has left the Northern Ireland camp and won’t play any part in the matches against Bosnia or Israel. (Evening News)

Steven Whittaker hopes new fitness routine keeps him in Hibs fold 

Steven Whittaker has explained how Hibs’ physio team have helped him find a fitness routine that he hopes will allow him to remain a regular contributor. (Evening News)

Oran Kearney appointed new manager of St Mirren 

St Mirren have named Oran Kearney as the club’s new manager. The 40-year-old school teacher has agreed a three-year deal with the Buddies after leaving Northern Irish side Coleraine, who he led to Irish Cup glory last season and a second-place finish in the NIFL Premiership. (The Scotsman)

Rumour Mill: '˜Going for 55?!'| McLeish takes Scotland blame | Novo reveals depression battle after Rangers