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Blair Meikle

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The Herald Aug 2026
Driouech admits true feelings on Rangers transfer collapse
Couhaib Driouech says the collapse of his proposed £7 million move from PSV to Rangers was an emotional rollercoaster and that the situation “sucks.” Rangers withdrew after a medical identified a thigh tear and hematoma that could have kept the 24-year-old winger out for several weeks. Driouech is back in training, remains open to another transfer before the window closes, but says he is happy to continue as a PSV player.
The Herald Aug 2026
Rangers' Euro Squad Released as New Signing Not Included — Yet
Rangers have submitted their squad for the Europa Conference League play-off against Jablonec without new signing James Penrice. The club can make up to two changes before Wednesday's deadline, allowing Penrice to be added, likely to address a shortage of left-back options caused by Tuur Rommens' injury. Ben Godfrey is included after recovering from injury, and any further new signing before the deadline could also be registered.
The Herald Aug 2026
The moment Stephen Welsh knew his Celtic career was over
Stephen Welsh says he realised his Celtic career was over when the club sent him on loan to Motherwell in January. Despite impressing there, he was not included in Celtic's plans and later joined Swansea City after Celtic agreed to terminate his contract without a transfer fee. Welsh said moving to Swansea was the right decision for his playing career.
The Herald Aug 2026
McCoist on Rangers cup draw and issue needing 'ironed out'
Ally McCoist says Rangers should embrace their Premier Sports Cup quarter-final against Celtic, particularly because the match will be played at Ibrox. He acknowledges Rangers' poor start to the season and disappointing European performances but views the victory over St Mirren and the derby draw as an opportunity for the team. McCoist also highlights ongoing defensive concerns, saying centre-back Emmanuel Fernandez has promise but must eliminate individual mistakes.
The Herald Aug 2026
O'Neill on whether Celtic will sign anyone before the UCL deadline
Martin O'Neill said he was unsure whether Celtic could complete another signing before the Champions League play-off deadline, but confirmed the club would try. The comments followed Celtic's 4-0 Premier Sports Cup win over Dundee United, in which summer arrivals Mika Baur and Haissem Hassan made their debuts and Camilo Duran scored. O'Neill remains confident Celtic can add another player before the transfer window closes.
The Herald Aug 2026
Penrice on realising boyhood dream after January Rangers near-miss
James Penrice has joined Rangers from AEK Athens on loan with an option to buy for £1.75 million next summer. The 27-year-old left-back, who previously came through Rangers' academy, said the move fulfils a boyhood dream after a potential January transfer fell through. He arrives after helping AEK win the Greek Super League title and is expected to provide cover for the injured Tuur Rommens. Penrice acknowledged the pressure to win trophies at Rangers and said he is confident he can maintain his career momentum.
The Herald Aug 2026
Nisbet double helps Aberdeen bounce back with Dundee cup win
Kevin Nisbet scored twice and Mitchy Ntelo added a debut goal as Aberdeen defeated Dundee 3-0 at Pittodrie in the Premier Sports Cup. Aberdeen dominated after half-time to reach the quarter-finals and avenge a 2-0 league defeat by Dundee the previous week. Dundee captain and striker Simon Murray left injured with a knee problem during the first half.
The Herald Aug 2026
O'Neill explains why Tierney is benched for Dundee United
Celtic manager Martin O'Neill explains that Kieran Tierney was left on the bench against Dundee United because the team had limited time to prepare for its next match and no immediate replacement was available. Liam Scales was selected to regain match fitness after suspension, while Celtic also made changes involving Colby Donovan, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Sebastian Tounekti. Alistair Johnston was injured, Arne Engels was omitted amid his expected move to West Ham, and Yang also missed out.
The Herald Aug 2026
Rangers chief announces exit as he moves to English club
Rangers chief financial officer James Taylor has left the Scottish club after almost three years to become CFO of West Ham United, subject to customary approvals. Taylor said he was proud of the improvements achieved at Rangers and welcomed the opportunity to reunite with former colleagues Nils Koppen and Karim Virani at West Ham.
The Herald Aug 2026
Hearts sign released Rangers player on short-term deal
Former Rangers goalkeeper Kieran Wright has joined Hearts on a deal running until January. The 27-year-old, who also had loan spells with Partick Thistle, Airdrie and Livingston, was signed after an injury to Hearts goalkeeper Zander Clark. Wright will serve as the club's third-choice goalkeeper behind Beau Reus and Ryan Fulton, helping cover the squad domestically and in European competition while several young keepers are out on loan.
The Herald Aug 2026
Celtic squad to face LASK in Champions League play-off confirmed
Celtic have confirmed a 25-man squad for their Champions League play-off against LASK. New signings Haissem Hassan and Mika Baur are included, while Alistair Johnston is absent through mid-September. Arne Engels is listed despite undergoing a medical ahead of a proposed move to West Ham, and Colby Donovan and Marcus Gill qualify as under-21 homegrown players.
The Herald Aug 2026
How Rangers players rated as they crashed out of Europa League
Rangers were eliminated from the Europa League after drawing 1-1 with Jagiellonia Białystok, who advanced on aggregate after winning the first leg. Lawrence Shankland scored Rangers’ penalty and received a rating of six, while Olwethu Makhanya, Ivor Pandur, Daisuke Yokota, Djeidi Gassama, Dan Neil and Nicolas Raskin also earned sixes. The lowest ratings went to substitute Vanja Dragojevic and Bojan Miovski, both rated three, while Thelo Aasgaard was rated four after a quiet first half. Rangers’ defensive lapses, including the failure to prevent Jagiellonia’s equalizer, and their limited attacking effectiveness drew criticism from the home supporters.
The Herald Aug 2026
Couhaib Driouech pictured at Ibrox taking in Rangers' Europa League clash
Couhaib Driouech was spotted at Ibrox watching Rangers face Jagiellonia Białystok in a Europa League qualifying match. Rangers are reportedly close to agreeing a £7 million deal with PSV for the 24-year-old winger, whose signing could address the club’s lack of creativity in wide areas. Manager Derek McInnes also said Rangers were seeking reinforcements to cover injuries to Youssef Chermiti and Tuur Rommens.
The Herald Aug 2026
The ex-Celtic star who told Mika Baur to jump at transfer chance
New Celtic signing Mika Baur says the move from SC Paderborn 07 is the right step in his career. The Germany Under-21 international was encouraged to join by former Celtic winger Nicolas Kuhn, who told him to accept the opportunity. Baur describes himself as a confident, technical playmaker who works hard and hopes to win trophies, while expressing excitement about experiencing Celtic Park's atmosphere.
The Herald Aug 2026
Why Ferguson missed out on Rangers job and why he felt let down
Barry Ferguson says Rangers told him it wanted a manager with greater experience, including Premier League experience, when it appointed Russell Martin rather than giving him the job permanently. Ferguson admits the decision hurt and left him feeling let down, but says he respected the club’s choice and returned to his role as an ambassador. He has not ruled out managing Rangers again, describing his caretaker spell as demanding but rewarding and saying he believed it helped restore a connection between the team and supporters.
The Herald Aug 2026
Rangers learn next Europa League opponent if they beat Bialystok
Rangers would face Iberia Tbilisi in the Europa League play-off if they overturn a 2–1 first-leg deficit against Jagiellonia Białystok. Iberia defeated Northern Irish side Larne after extra time and would host Rangers on August 27, following a Rangers home leg on August 20. If Rangers lose to Białystok, they would drop into the Conference League play-off against either Jablonec or RFS.
The Herald Aug 2026
SFA confirms latest exit as key figure follows Clarke and Gemmill
Brian McLaughlin is leaving the Scottish FA after nine years as Scotland under-17s head coach and since 2018 as manager of the performance school programme. He helped develop several players who progressed to the senior national team, including Billy Gilmour, Nathan Patterson and Aaron Hickey. Chief football officer Craig Mulholland praised McLaughlin's professionalism and contribution, while McLaughlin described his time in Scottish football as a privilege and expressed optimism about its future.
The Herald Aug 2026
Rangers cult hero makes move to English non-league side
Former Rangers goalkeeper Andy Firth has joined National League club Altrincham as a player-coach for the 2026–27 season. The 29-year-old recently left Saudi Arabian side Al-Ettifaq, where he had worked under former Rangers manager Steven Gerrard, and will lead Altrincham’s goalkeeping department while also returning to playing. Firth made one first-team appearance for Rangers after joining in 2019 and later played for Connah’s Quay Nomads.
The Herald Aug 2026
Major Jota Celtic update as training footage shared
Jota has returned to Celtic training after approximately 16 months out with a cruciate ligament injury sustained against Dundee United. Celtic shared footage of the Portuguese winger walking out to train ahead of the match against Kilmarnock, marking his first apparent participation in a proper session after previously doing rehabilitation and straight-line running. Manager Martin O’Neill remains cautious, stressing that returning to training does not mean Jota is fit to play and suggesting a possible return around October or Halloween.
The Herald Aug 2026
Derek McInnes on how Rangers 'beat themselves' in Bialystok
Rangers manager Derek McInnes said his team beat themselves in a 2–1 Europa League defeat to Jagiellonia Białystok after taking an early lead through an own goal. He blamed lapses in concentration and defensive errors for allowing Kajetan Szmyt to score twice, while praising the second-half substitutes and noting that Rangers created chances. McInnes said the club still needs attacking and defensive signings, especially after injuries and limited player fitness, but remains hopeful Rangers can overturn the deficit in the second leg.
The Herald Aug 2026
How Rangers players rated as they narrowly lost Bialystok first leg
Rangers lost 2–1 to Jagiellonia Bialystok in the Europa League first leg after taking an early lead through an own goal from Guilherme Montoia. Defensive mistakes allowed Bialystok to equalise and then take the lead, although Rangers improved after half-time and created several late chances. Tuur Rommens, Mohamed Diomande, Youssef Chermiti and several substitutes received the strongest ratings, while Emmanuel Fernandez, Ross McCrorie, Tochi Chukwuani, Dan Neil and Daisuke Yokota were among the lowest-rated players.
The Herald Aug 2026
Ex-Celtic coach responds to Scott Brown's attack on his personality
Former Celtic coach Peter Grant has responded to Scott Brown's claim that Grant had “zero personality” and poor man-management skills during their time at Celtic under Tony Mowbray. Brown said he would have left the club had Mowbray and Grant remained, while Grant dismissed the remarks, saying everyone is entitled to an opinion and that many of his friends would disagree.
The Herald Aug 2026
Rangers boss McInnes reacts to O'Neill hospital news
Rangers manager Derek McInnes sent his best wishes to Celtic manager Martin O'Neill after Celtic announced that O'Neill was recovering in hospital following a small procedure. O'Neill, 74, was expected to be discharged within 24 to 48 hours, and McInnes said he hoped his rival would return to work as soon as possible.
The Herald Aug 2026
Ex-Rangers loanee Moore 'one step away' from sealing latest move
Mikey Moore is reportedly one step away from joining FC Köln on loan from Tottenham Hotspur for the 2026/27 season. The 18-year-old winger impressed during his 2025/26 loan spell at Rangers, scoring seven goals and becoming a fan favourite. Tottenham manager Roberto De Zerbi said the club would assess the final stages of the transfer window before deciding Moore’s best development path. Moore had preferred a move to a top-five European league, while Middlesbrough and Borussia Dortmund were also linked.
The Herald Aug 2026
Bialystok boss expects tough test from 'huge club' Rangers
Jagiellonia Białystok manager Adrian Siemieniec expects a demanding Europa League third qualifying-round tie against Rangers, whom he describes as a huge and legendary club. He believes Rangers are favourites because of their European experience, physical strength, pressing, aerial ability and set-piece threat, but says his team must retain its identity and mentality. The first leg will be played in Białystok, with the winners advancing to a play-off against Larne or Iberia Tbilisi for a place in the league phase.
The Herald Aug 2026
In-demand ex-Rangers kid admits he will make transfer move
Former Rangers striker Robbie Ure says he expects to consider a transfer when the timing is right for him and IK Sirius. The 22-year-old has impressed for the unbeaten Swedish league leaders and attracted interest from clubs including Galatasaray, Trabzonspor, Lyon, Hoffenheim and Lecce, whose reported £3.5 million bid was rejected. Ure says he remains focused on Sirius but is open to moving to a stronger league, while also acknowledging that a future return to Rangers could address a sense of unfinished business.
The Herald Aug 2026
Hearts' 22-man Europa League squad for Benfica with four changes
Heart of Midlothian has named a 22-man squad for its Europa League qualifier against Benfica, making four changes from the group that faced Sturm Graz. Summer signings Beau Reus, MJ Kamson-Kamara, Laurent Mendy and Josh McPake have been added, while Alexander Schwolow and injured players Christian Borchgrevink, Malachi Fagan-Walcott and Stephen Kingsley drop out. Hearts can make up to two further changes before the deadline and will play Benfica in Lisbon before the return leg at Tynecastle. Victory would set up a Europa League play-off against the loser of Aarhus or Sabah, while defeat would move Hearts into a Conference League play-off against Paide or Rapid Vienna.
The Herald Aug 2026
Rangers name their Europa League squad as trio omitted
Rangers have submitted a 25-man squad for their two-legged Europa League qualifying tie against Jagiellonia Białystok. Nicolas Raskin is included despite reported transfer interest from Villarreal and Real Betis, while John Souttar and Nedim Bajrami are omitted amid possible departures. Summer signing Ben Godfrey is also absent after suffering a hamstring injury, while new signing Olwethu Makhanya has been selected despite visa concerns for the away match.
The Herald Aug 2026
O'Neill Gives Update on Transfer Situations of Celtic Duo
Martin O'Neill selected Alistair Johnston and Arne Engels for Celtic's Premiership opener against Dundee despite reported transfer interest from Everton and West Ham United. O'Neill acknowledged that offers had been made for both players but said their performances had made the interest unsurprising. He added that neither player appeared distracted by the speculation and that both were focused on playing.
The Herald Aug 2026
Celtic Player Omitted from Squad Number List as Signings Included
Celtic has announced its squad numbers for the upcoming season, giving new striker Kasper Hogh the number nine shirt and Camilo Duran number eleven. Forward Johnny Kenny was omitted from the list, is absent from the squad to face Dundee and has not played in pre-season due to an injury. Kenny spent the second half of last season on loan at Bolton Wanderers, scoring six goals as the club won promotion, and Bolton is reportedly considering a permanent transfer.
The Herald Jul 2026
When Rangers World Cup trio will join up with the squad
Three Rangers players—Cammy Devlin, Ivor Pandur and Thelo Aasgaard—are set to rejoin the squad on Monday after returning from World Cup duty. Aasgaard, whose Norway reached the quarter-finals, opted to return early despite being entitled to more time off. Manager Derek McInnes said the returning players add quality as the club continues strengthening the squad ahead of upcoming matches, with preparations progressing well two weeks before facing Dundee United.
The Herald Jul 2026
Ex-Celtic star answers Rodgers vs Postecoglou question
Greg Taylor declined to choose between former Celtic managers Brendan Rodgers and Ange Postecoglou, praising both for their differing styles and strong tactical qualities. He noted Rodgers’ more personal approach and Postecoglou’s more reserved style, saying he enjoyed working under both and adapted to each system. Taylor also highlighted Neil Lennon for signing him to the club.
The Herald Jul 2026
Middlesbrough boss on why he expects Celtic game to be 'real'
Middlesbrough manager Kim Hellberg anticipates that an upcoming friendly against Celtic will resemble a competitive match due to fan presence and higher intensity, contrasting it with the club’s earlier training game in Portugal. He emphasises the importance of the fixture for pre-season development and the benefit of strong supporter turnout as the team prepares for the new league campaign.
The Herald Jul 2026
Ex-Rangers star joins Neil McCann's coaching staff at Kilmarnock
Kirk Broadfoot has been appointed first‑team coach at Kilmarnock, moving up from the under‑19s following Craig Clark’s departure to Rangers. He joins Neil McCann’s coaching team alongside several existing staff members as the club prepares for the 2026–27 season, with Kilmarnock noting his previous playing experience and over 100 appearances for the club.
The Herald Jul 2026
Maeda on transfer ambition again as he explains why EPL appeals
Daizen Maeda reiterates his desire to move from Celtic to the English Premier League, stating he has long wanted the opportunity and is confident he can succeed there. Speaking from Celtic’s training camp, Martin O’Neill acknowledges the likelihood of Maeda’s departure but urges him to consider completing the final year of his contract. Maeda expresses that team identity does not matter as long as he can play in the Premier League. He reflects on last season, noting a strong goal tally and frustration over a collapsed move to Wolfsburg, but says he regained form and remains focused on performing well ahead of any transfer decision.
The Herald Jul 2026
Sinner proud to bounce back to defend Wimbledon title
Jannik Sinner defended his Wimbledon title with a four-set win over Alexander Zverev, overcoming recent setbacks including heat-related struggles in Paris. Sinner credited intense preparation in Monaco for his improved form, securing his fifth major and 100th grand slam match win. Zverev, who recently claimed the French Open, pushed Sinner but faltered at key moments, including a slip on his only break point. Despite a strong performance and his best Wimbledon showing to date, Zverev finished runner‑up and will rise to world number two. Spectators in the Royal Box included members of the British royal family, adding prominence to the event.
The Herald Jul 2026
Saracchi officially a Boca outcast as Argentines release statement
Marcelo Saracchi has been confirmed by Boca Juniors as one of several players removed from first-team training and made available for transfer after returning from his loan at Celtic. Celtic remain interested in arranging another loan but Boca prefer a permanent move, while Estudiantes and Independiente have also been linked. Boca announced that Saracchi and other listed players are training separately from the main squad.
The Herald Jul 2026
Rangers leak third kit ahead of release to mixed response
Rangers shared teaser images of their upcoming third kit, revealing a black-and-red design featuring Umbro branding and a Lion Rampant. Supporters reacted with mixed opinions, with some criticising the look and others expressing optimism. The kit is set to go on sale the following morning.
The Herald Jul 2026
Rangers star 'kicked his last ball' as lofty fee floated
Former Rangers player Andy Halliday believes Nicolas Raskin has likely played his final match for the club, as interest has increased following the midfielder’s strong World Cup performances. Halliday suggests Rangers should seek a fee comparable to the £25 million Nottingham Forest bid for Arne Engels, though he doubts the club would reach that figure. Derek Ferguson expects Raskin’s most likely destination to be the English Premier League, with Hull City among those linked.
The Herald Jul 2026
Vaclav Cerny makes big decision on his future amid Rangers links
Vaclav Cerny has retired from international football after expressing frustration over a lack of appreciation within the Czech national team. Following his omission from recent squads, he plans to focus on his club career with Besiktas, where new manager Vincenzo Italiano reportedly considers him part of future plans. Despite transfer speculation linking him to Rangers, he is expected to remain in Turkey.
The Herald Jul 2026
Qarabag boss on the issue Duran's move to Celtic causes
Qarabag manager Qurban Qurbanov acknowledges that Camilo Duran’s expected £5.5 million transfer to Celtic is close to completion and admits the departure of one of his most versatile and talented players could create difficulties for his team. He highlights Duran’s importance in European competition and his ability to play multiple positions, noting that losing such a key figure will be challenging once the move is finalised.
The Herald Jul 2026
Duran pictured in Celtic training ahead of signing announcement
Camilo Duran has been training with Celtic ahead of his expected £5.5 million transfer from Qarabag, with images emerging from the club’s training camp in Portugal. The 24-year-old forward appears poised to become Celtic’s first summer signing, following public congratulations from the London Embassy of Azerbaijan. Celtic are also working to re-sign Kelechi Iheanacho and Marcelo Saracchi, while Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain has joined the squad after extending his contract.
The Herald Jul 2026
Scottish Cup-winning Hibs hero completes move to fifth tier
Dylan McGeouch has joined fifth-tier side Gretna 2008 on a two‑year contract after leaving Ballymena United. The former Hibernian midfielder, part of the club’s 2016 Scottish Cup-winning team, continues his career following injury-affected spells at several clubs. Gretna announced him as one of five new signings as they prepare for the restructured Lowland League West.
The Herald Jul 2026
The bounce game Celtic played before Shelbourne friendly
Martin O’Neill expressed satisfaction with Celtic’s preseason preparations after a 1-1 friendly against Shelbourne in Dublin, noting that the squad had also completed a bounce match against Partick Thistle earlier in the week. The match allowed young players such as Emmanuel Obidiwe, Kye Ure, and Francis Turley to gain minutes, with the manager rotating the entire lineup at halftime. Goals came from Harry Wood for Shelbourne and a late penalty converted by Shin Yamada for Celtic, giving both senior and youth players valuable early-season experience.
The Herald Jul 2026
Martin O'Neill details transfer offers for Celtic stars
Martin O’Neill says Celtic have received multiple transfer offers for current players as the club looks to strengthen while preparing for potential departures. He expects new additions within weeks, with Camilo Duran set to become the first summer signing pending a medical and likely to join the squad for its Portugal training camp.
The Herald Jul 2026
What O'Neill said about Duran and other Celtic transfers
Martin O'Neill confirmed that Celtic are close to signing Colombian forward Camilo Duran from Qarabag in a £5.5 million deal, with a medical scheduled and plans for him to join the squad in Portugal. He highlighted the need to strengthen the team after last season’s strong run and said multiple transfer efforts are underway. Duran’s record of fifteen goals last season, including five in Champions League matches, was noted as Celtic aim to reinforce ahead of their upcoming play‑off.
The Herald Jul 2026
Rangers star seen mocking US President in dressing room footage
Belgium players, including Rangers midfielder Nicolas Raskin, mocked US President Donald Trump after a 4–1 World Cup win over the United States, following controversy over Trump’s intervention in a disciplinary review for striker Folarin Balogun. Dressing-room footage showed the team continuing the celebratory gesture. Raskin impressed during the match, adding to his tournament appearances and attracting interest from several clubs.