Ben Banks

Motherwell defeated HJK Helsinki 2-0 at Fir Park, advancing 3-1 on aggregate to the UEFA Conference League play-off round. Ibrahim Said scored twice after half-time, including a solo effort and a second goal following strong build-up play. Motherwell will face SC Freiburg, last season’s Europa League finalists, in a two-legged tie beginning in Scotland on August 20 before the return match in Germany on August 27.

Jens Berthel Askou reflects on his transformative season at Motherwell, where a possession-based, high-tempo style and emphasis on removing players’ fear of mistakes helped the club finish fourth, generate transfer income and attract wider attention. He says Toulouse offered a particularly compelling opportunity in an interesting and challenging Ligue 1, despite his affection for Motherwell. Askou argues that Scottish football can benefit from more modern recruitment and playing methods, but needs greater investment in talent and coaching development to retain homegrown players. At Toulouse, he aims to raise the profile of the football team alongside the city’s dominant rugby club while developing a highly regarded academy and young squad.

Rangers have completed the signing of 20-year-old Serbian midfielder and former FK Partizan captain Vanja Dragojevic on a four-year contract running to 2030, with an option for an additional year. The deal remains subject to international clearance and a successful visa application. Dragojevic is Rangers’ seventh summer signing and their third new midfielder, after Cammy Devlin and Dan Neil. Manager Derek McInnes praised his potential, leadership and character, while Dragojevic said he was attracted by Rangers’ winning mentality after first hearing of the club’s interest three months earlier. He leaves Partizan with gratitude as Rangers prepare to begin their league campaign against Dundee United.

Aberdeen FC has secured a permanent alcohol licence from Aberdeen City Council for the Richard Donald Stand Lower concourse at Pittodrie, following two successful trials during the previous season. Alcohol may be sold until 30 minutes before kick-off, consumed only in designated areas out of sight of the pitch, and offered only at lower-risk non-category CIR matches. The licence begins for Aberdeen’s Scottish Premiership home fixture against Hearts on 1 August, alongside plans for additional entertainment and fan activities.

Hearts, Rangers, Hibs and Motherwell prepare for their European third‑round qualifier draws across the Champions League, Europa League and Conference League, with fixtures determined in Nyon. Draws will stream live on the UEFA website and YouTube, beginning with the Champions League at 11am, followed by the Europa League at noon and the Conference League at 1pm. Hearts could face strong opponents including Lyon or Olympiacos if they advance, while Rangers enter as Europa League seeds. Hibs and Motherwell remain unseeded and could meet clubs such as Braga, Ajax or Copenhagen if they progress.

Heart of Midlothian have signed goalkeeper Beau Reus on a contract through 2029 as Alexander Schwolow prepares to leave for Mainz 05 on August 1. Reus arrives following four years at SK Beveren and amid outside interest, while Schwolow departs after helping Hearts secure second place and Champions League qualifiers. The change comes during a busy period in the club’s goalkeeping department, following Craig Gordon’s retirement and Liam McFarlane’s loan to Partick Thistle. Schwolow cited Mainz’s style and clear communication as key reasons for his move back to the Bundesliga.