Rumour Mill: Osijek boss swears at Rangers fans | Celtic receive Champions League blow | Jamie Maclaren update
Hibs close to Maclaren signing
Hibs are “very close” to sealing a return for Jamie Maclaren, manager Neil Lennon has revealed. Speaking after Hibs’ 1-1 draw with Asteras Tripolis in Greece, Lennon said: “Jamie Maclaren, I think, is getting closer and hopefully we’ll have something over the line by the weekend. (Evening News)
Osijek boss swears at Rangers fans
Osijek manager Zoran Zekic was caught sticking his middle finger up at Rangers fans after his side crashed out of Europe with a 2-1 aggregate defeat to the Ibrox side. The 44-year-old went over to applaud his own side’s fans after the match before making the gesture in the direction of the Union Bears fan group. (Scottish Sun)
Dembele blow
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Hide AdCeltic will be without striker Moussa Dembele for their clash with AEK Athens in the third round of Champions League qualifying. The Frenchman is still rehabbing a hamstring injury suffered against Alashkert and won’t be back in time to face the Greek champions. (Daily Record)
Sutton ‘will regret’ Lafferty comments
Craig Levein has defended Kyle Lafferty, who was described as “a nutter” by outspoken pundit Chris Sutton. The Hearts manager refused to be drawn into a war of words with the ex-Celtic striker but suggested he may rue some of his comments concerning the Tynecastle forward. (The Scotsman)
Gerrard ‘jealous’ of Jack
Steven Gerrard singled out Ryan Jack for lavish praise after Rangers progressed in the Europa League, expressing both admiration and envy of the midfielder’s display. Rangers manager Gerrard paid Jack the ultimate compliment after a 1-1 draw at Ibrox secured a 2-1 aggregate win over Osijek. (The Scotsman)
Rodgers on Celtic signings
Brendan Rodgers could offer no clarity that Celtic will have any new signings before their next Champions League tie but the Hoops boss is happy to remain patient in the transfer market. He said: “There is some work going on behind the scenes but there is nothing to give any clarity on anyone coming in.” (The Scotsman)
Kipre to leave Motherwell
Motherwell defender Cedric Kipre is set to complete a £1million move to Wigan Athletic. The French defender is discussing personal terms with the Championship side after they met Motherwell’s valuation. Kipre was a stand-out last season after arriving on a free transfer from Leicester. (Scottish Sun)
Smith allowed to leave
Hearts will allow defender Liam Smith to leave before the transfer window closes. The 22-year-old has been told he can go if he finds a new club, either on loan or in a permanent transfer. Manager Craig Levein admitted that Smith might already have moved but for an injury to his namesake and fellow right-back Michael. (Edinburgh News)