Gavin Mccafferty

Rangers dismissed head coach Russell Martin after a 1-1 draw at Falkirk left the club eighth in the Scottish Premiership, 11 points behind leaders Hearts. Martin managed only five wins in 17 matches, including one league victory in seven games, while supporters protested and police escorted him from the stadium. Assistant Matt Gill and first-team coach Mike Williamson also departed. The club remains in the Premier Sports Cup semi-finals but has lost its opening two Europa League matches, leaving the new ownership regime and executives Patrick Stewart and Kevin Thelwell under pressure to appoint a successful successor.

John Robertson, the celebrated Nottingham Forest and Scotland winger, has died aged 72. A key figure under Brian Clough, he helped Forest win the 1978 league title, two League Cups and consecutive European Cups, assisting Trevor Francis against Malmö in 1979 and scoring the winner against Hamburg in 1980. His career also included World Cup appearances for Scotland and a famous goal against England at Wembley. After a difficult spell at Derby and retirement from playing, Robertson rebuilt his life through coaching alongside Martin O'Neill at Celtic and Aston Villa. He faced significant personal hardships, including his daughter Jessica's severe disability and death, but remained highly regarded at Forest and was twice voted the club's greatest player.

Daizen Maeda scored twice and assisted Kieran Tierney as Celtic defeated Falkirk 3–1, moving level on points with Scottish Premiership leaders Hearts. Kyrell Wilson briefly reduced the deficit for Falkirk, but Maeda restored Celtic’s two-goal advantage in the 83rd minute. Celtic’s third consecutive league win keeps them firmly in the title race, although their goal difference remains inferior to both Hearts and Rangers.

Celtic have been drawn against Austrian champions LASK in the Champions League play-offs, with the first leg scheduled for 18 or 19 August and the return leg the following week. LASK won the Austrian league and cup last season but have won only one of their past 14 European matches. The draw also outlines possible Europa League play-off routes for Rangers, Larne, Hearts and Shamrock Rovers, depending on the outcomes of their preceding qualifying ties.

Sione Fukofuka has left his position as Scotland women’s head coach on compassionate grounds, citing the stress of living apart from his family in Australia and his in-laws’ ill health, which made a planned family relocation impossible. Forwards coach Dave Butcher will serve as interim head coach for the WXV Global Series, where Scotland will face Canada, New Zealand and Australia. Scottish Rugby performance director David Nucifora thanked Fukofuka and said the organisation is working to maintain appropriate structures for the women’s programme while considering a long-term replacement.

Celtic were drawn against Austrian champions LASK Linz in the Champions League play-offs, avoiding a rematch with Kairat Almaty, who eliminated them on penalties the previous season. The first leg was scheduled for 18 or 19 August, with the second leg the following week. LASK had recently won its second Austrian Bundesliga title and the Austrian Cup, but had won only one of its previous 14 European matches.

An independent review of Celtic’s Scottish Cup victory over Rangers at Ibrox found that crushing and potentially life-threatening violence were narrowly avoided during two major incidents: a surge involving Green Brigade supporters outside the stadium and a near-confrontation involving masked Rangers fans armed with poles and reinforced gloves. The report identified serious planning and policing failures, including delays over the away-ticket allocation, insufficient multi-agency coordination and inadequate preparation for ticketless supporters. It also documented sectarian chanting, pyrotechnics, objects thrown at players and officials, racial abuse, provocative conduct by Rangers personnel and an injury to a 10-year-old Celtic supporter. The findings led to disciplinary charges against both clubs and more than 30 recommendations, including tighter ticket-allocation rules and greater club accountability for supporter behaviour.

Scotland recovered from a 17-7 half-time deficit to defeat Fiji 33-17 at Murrayfield in the Nations Championship. Fiji scored three first-half tries and made 232 tackles, but Scotland gained greater rhythm and directness after Gregor Townsend introduced his replacements. Pierre Schoeman, Scott Cummings and Jamie Dobie, who scored twice, completed the comeback and secured a bonus point.

Hearts have appointed Belgian coach Wouter Vrancken as their new head coach on a two-year contract. Vrancken arrives after leading Sint-Truiden to third place in Belgium’s top division and succeeding as Belgian manager of the year twice. He replaces Derek McInnes, who left for Rangers after guiding Hearts to a narrow second-place finish in the Scottish Premiership behind Celtic.

Heart of Midlothian have appointed Belgian coach Wouter Vrancken on a two-year contract to replace Derek McInnes, who left to manage Rangers. Vrancken joins after guiding Sint-Truiden to third place in Belgium and will seek to help Hearts challenge Celtic and Rangers in Scotland. McInnes had taken Hearts to the brink of the Scottish Premiership title, but Celtic won the decisive match 3–1 amid a disputed pitch invasion. The SPFL later confirmed that referee Don Robertson had ended the match and that it had not been abandoned.

Martin O’Neill has signed a new one-year contract to remain Celtic manager, with an option for an additional season, after guiding the club to a league and Scottish Cup double. He returned twice last season, first stabilising the team after Brendan Rodgers’ departure and later replacing Wilfried Nancy, ultimately recording 19 wins in 23 league matches and leading Celtic to two cup victories over Rangers and progress in the Europa League knockout stages. Celtic’s leadership praised O’Neill’s winning record and commitment, while the club’s announcement did not address reported concerns over wage cuts for assistants Shaun Maloney and Mark Fotheringham. His continuation also follows supporter opposition to the possible appointment of Robbie Keane.

Rute Cardoso, Diogo Jota’s widow, wrote to Andy Robertson after Scotland qualified for the World Cup, urging him to fulfill the dream he and Jota shared. Robertson said Jota had been on his mind during the qualification campaign and promised to carry his friend in his heart throughout the tournament. Jota died in a road accident four months earlier alongside his brother, Andre Silva.

Scotland cancelled a planned training-ground friendly against Norway shortly before the World Cup, citing injuries and concerns about further player damage. Norway manager Ståle Solbakken criticized Steve Clarke for not contacting him directly and questioned the injury explanation, while team manager Brede Hangeland called the cancellation embarrassing. Clarke defended the decision, saying one or two player niggles made the risk unacceptable.

Scotland cancelled a planned one-hour training-ground friendly with Norway in North Carolina after reporting injuries among its players. Norway coach Ståle Solbakken criticized Steve Clarke for failing to contact him directly and called the decision unprofessional, while team manager Brede Hangeland described it as embarrassing and weak after months of planning. Clarke said Scotland had picked up one or two minor injuries and decided the match was not worth the risk.

Scotland head coach Steve Clarke has urged his players to embrace and enjoy the World Cup atmosphere after the squad arrived at its base in Charlotte, North Carolina. Following a Florida training camp and a 4-0 win over Bolivia, Scotland will train at the Atrium Health Training Ground before travelling to Massachusetts to face Haiti in its opening match. Clarke reflected on the squad’s seven-year journey together and said preparations are now being finalized for the tournament.

Scotland captain Caroline Weir says questions about the political implications of Scotland's World Cup qualifying fixtures against Israel should be directed to FIFA and UEFA rather than the players. The matches will be played in Budapest amid the continuing Gaza conflict, following a previous Scotland-Israel fixture held behind closed doors after a pitch protest. Scotland have already secured a play-off place and are level on points with Belgium; winning the group would secure a seeded position. Coach Melissa Andreatta says Israel are technically capable, well organised and dangerous on the counterattack and at set pieces.

Ipswich striker George Hirst describes his selection for Scotland’s 26-man World Cup squad as a huge relief and a proud, dream-fulfilling moment. He learned of the call-up shortly before its public announcement while golfing in Portugal and said it only felt real after joining his team-mates in Glasgow. Hirst had faced strong competition for the forward places and responded by focusing on his all-round contributions rather than goals alone. He credits manager Steve Clarke’s opportunity and aims to contribute wherever the team needs him.

Celtic defeated Dunfermline 3–1 in the Scottish Cup final to complete a domestic double and claim their 43rd Scottish Cup. Daizen Maeda and Arne Engels gave Celtic a commanding first-half lead, while substitute Kelechi Iheanacho added a third before Josh Cooper pulled one back. The victory marked Martin O’Neill’s ninth major honour as Celtic manager and provided a fitting conclusion to his return spell, while Celtic finished the season with nine consecutive wins.

Scottish referee John Beaton and his family were placed under police protection after personal details were leaked online following his VAR-assisted decision to award Celtic a controversial penalty against Motherwell. The Scottish Football Association condemned the resulting abuse and “vigilantism,” attributed the hostile climate partly to media narratives and post-match interviews, and said it would seek stronger rules to protect match officials. Beaton had previously faced abuse after officiating a Rangers-Celtic match, leading to criminal convictions in 2018.

Scottish referee John Beaton and his family were placed under police surveillance after personal details were leaked online following a disputed stoppage-time VAR penalty awarded to Celtic against Motherwell. The decision drew criticism from Hearts and the Foundation of Hearts, while the Scottish Football Association condemned online vigilantism and the wider scapegoating of officials. The SFA said it would strengthen protections for referees, warning that sustained hostility could endanger officials and undermine recruitment. Beaton had previously faced abuse after officiating a Rangers–Celtic match in 2018.

A disputed stoppage-time handball penalty awarded to Celtic against Motherwell triggered widespread criticism of Scottish refereeing and VAR. Ally McCoist called for VAR to be scrapped in Scotland, describing the system and its implementation as an embarrassment, while Gary Lineker, Jeff Stelling, Don Hutchison and others also condemned the decision. Motherwell and Hearts representatives raised further concerns, and former referee Steve Conroy blamed systemic failures at the Scottish Football Association. Former Celtic striker Chris Sutton defended the intervention, arguing that the ball struck an arm in an unnatural position and that criticism was driven partly by opposition to Celtic winning another title.

Celtic came from behind to beat Rangers 3-1 at Celtic Park, with Daizen Maeda scoring twice, including a spectacular overhead kick, after Mikey Moore had given Rangers an early lead. Yang Hyun-jun equalised in a controversial goal that survived a VAR review before Maeda completed Celtic’s comeback. Hearts’ draw with Motherwell reduced their lead over Celtic to one point, while Rangers were confirmed in third place after their third straight league defeat.

Rangers came from 2-0 down to defeat Falkirk 6-3 in a dramatic Scottish Premiership match, moving within one point of leaders Hearts. Ben Broggio and Finn Yeats gave Falkirk a strong first-half lead, but Tochi Chukwuani reduced the deficit before Rangers scored four goals in 16 minutes after the break. Youssef Chermiti and Bojan Miovski both scored twice, while Nico Raskin also found the net. Calvin Miller’s penalty briefly gave Falkirk hope, but Rangers restored their two-goal advantage before Miovski completed the scoring.

Kelechi Iheanacho scored an 82nd-minute winner as Celtic defeated Dundee 2–1 at Dens Park, cutting Hearts’ lead at the top of the Scottish Premiership to three points. Yang Hyun-jun gave Celtic an early lead before Simon Murray equalised from a VAR-assisted penalty. Iheanacho’s goal ended his six-month scoring drought, while Dundee’s Ryan Astley was sent off shortly afterward. The result keeps Celtic firmly involved in a three-way title race and provides a boost amid concerns over the team’s lack of goals from starting centre-forwards.

Aberdeen FC has appointed Stephen Robinson as head coach after securing him from St Mirren. Robinson, who previously managed Motherwell, has signed a contract through summer 2029 and will bring assistant Brian Kerr. Chairman Dave Cormack said the club wants to restore a clear identity, competitiveness and a more difficult style of play, while Robinson praised Aberdeen's history, facilities and supporters.

Nine people have been arrested after violence and disorder followed Celtic’s penalty-shootout victory over Rangers in the Scottish Cup quarter-final at Ibrox, with police expecting significantly more arrests after reviewing extensive CCTV footage. Fans invaded the pitch, missiles and a lit flare were thrown, several officers and members of the public were injured, and a Celtic player and staff member were allegedly assaulted. Police are also investigating incidents outside the stadium and a break-in by Celtic supporters before the match. Scotland’s First Minister John Swinney condemned the violence, backed the police investigation and urged clubs, authorities and the Scottish Football Association to work together to prevent similar incidents.

Celtic defeated Rangers 4–2 on penalties after a goalless Scottish Cup match at Ibrox, advancing to the semi-finals despite failing to record a shot on target during 120 minutes. Rangers had greater territorial pressure and 24 shots, but two goals were ruled out by VAR and Celtic defended resolutely. Celtic supporters invaded the pitch after the shootout, prompting hundreds of Rangers fans to enter as well; flares and missiles were thrown before police and stewards restored order.

Celtic beat Aberdeen 2-1 at Pittodrie to move into second place in the Scottish Premiership, one point ahead of Rangers and five behind leaders Hearts. Kieran Tierney opened the scoring early before Kevin Nisbet equalised from the penalty spot. Substitute Benjamin Nygren restored Celtic’s lead midway through the second half after combining with James Forrest, and the champions held on despite late pressure. The result ended Celtic’s run of two league matches without a win, while Aberdeen extended their winless sequence to five games amid their search for a new manager.

Celtic defeated Stuttgart 1-0 in Germany through Luke McCowan’s goal after 28 seconds, but the result could not overturn Stuttgart’s 3-0 first-leg advantage, with the German side progressing 4-2 on aggregate. The much-changed Celtic side defended resolutely, aided by several saves from Viljami Sinisalo, while a late Stuttgart equaliser was disallowed for offside after a VAR review. The victory ended Celtic’s long wait for an away European knockout win, offering some pride and ranking points before a crucial match against Rangers.

Celtic lost 4-1 to Stuttgart in the first leg of their Europa League tie, with goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel heavily criticized and booed by sections of the home support after errors contributed to two goals. Bilal El Khannouss scored twice, while Jamie Leweling and Tiago Tomas also found the net for Stuttgart; Benjamin Nygren briefly equalized for Celtic. The result leaves Celtic facing a difficult second leg in Germany amid a demanding domestic schedule and continuing fan protests against the club board and the ban on the Green Brigade.

Celtic drew 2-2 with Bologna in a dramatic Europa League match after Reo Hatate scored early and was sent off for two yellow cards. Auston Trusty doubled Celtic’s lead before ten-man Celtic endured heavy pressure, with Thijs Dallinga and Jonathan Rowe scoring to bring Bologna level. Kasper Schmeichel made several important saves as Bologna recorded 37 attempts, while both sides had late chances to win. The point leaves Celtic on eight points and in a strong position to reach the play-off round with victory over eliminated Utrecht in their final group match.

Celtic drew 2–2 with Bologna in Italy after Reo Hatate was sent off in the first half for two yellow cards. Hatate had opened the scoring, and Auston Trusty doubled Celtic’s lead shortly before half-time after an impressive defensive display. Bologna fought back under sustained second-half pressure, but Celtic held on and retained chances to win. Martin O’Neill praised the team’s colossal spirit, singled out Trusty and Liam Scales for their defending, and said Celtic would likely have won with 11 players. A victory over already eliminated Utrecht in Celtic’s final Europa League match would give Celtic a strong chance of reaching the knockout play-off round.

Martin O’Neill has returned as Celtic manager for the remainder of the season, four hours after the club dismissed Wilfried Nancy following only 33 days in charge. Nancy oversaw six defeats in eight matches, including a 3-1 home loss to Rangers, while Celtic conceded 18 goals and fell six points behind leaders Hearts. Head of football operations Paul Tisdale also left after criticism of recruitment and Nancy’s appointment. O’Neill, who won seven of eight matches during his previous interim spell, will work with a reorganised coaching staff as Celtic attempt to revive their title defence and Europa League campaign. Interim chairman Brian Wilson called for unity but acknowledged that the changes would not resolve all tensions between supporters and the board.

Celtic have appointed Wilfried Nancy as their new permanent manager on a contract running until summer 2028. The former Columbus Crew head coach succeeds Brendan Rodgers as the club’s permanent manager after Martin O’Neill’s interim spell, with Shaun Maloney also acknowledged for his work. Nancy called the role a major honour and pledged to build an exciting, attacking and winning team, while chief executive Michael Nicholson said Nancy had been Celtic’s leading candidate throughout the recruitment process.

St Mirren manager Stephen Robinson credited his players, coaching staff, administrative team and supporters after the club defeated Celtic 3–1 to win the Premier Sports Cup. Jonah Ayunga’s second-half double proved decisive after top scorer Mikael Mandron reported being ill but still contributed from the bench. Robinson, who had previously lost two cup finals to Celtic, dedicated the triumph to his family and emphasized that the players deserved the limelight and lasting recognition.

St Mirren defeated Celtic 3-1 at Hampden to win the Scottish League Cup, securing the club’s first major trophy since 2013. Marcus Fraser opened the scoring early, Reo Hatate equalised for Celtic, and Jonah Ayunga’s second-half brace settled the final. The defeat extended Wilfried Nancy’s difficult start as Celtic manager, while Stephen Robinson added a fifth major trophy to St Mirren’s honours.

Celtic defeated Feyenoord 3–1 in Rotterdam to claim their first European away win since 2021. After falling behind, Celtic came back through goals from Yang Hyun-jun, Reo Hatate and Benjamin Nygren. Interim manager Martin O'Neill praised the team's character and confidence, marking a strong European farewell before he is expected to leave after the following league match.

Celtic came from behind to defeat Feyenoord 3-1 in Rotterdam, with goals from Yang Hyun-jun, Reo Hatate and Benjamin Nygren. The victory moved Celtic to seven points in the Europa League and marked their first away win in European competition since beating Ferencvaros under Ange Postecoglou. Martin O’Neill, expected to leave after the league match against Hibernian and be replaced by Wilfried Nancy, praised his team’s resilience, control and growing confidence. The result provided a memorable European farewell for O’Neill, who has overseen five wins in six matches since returning as interim manager.

Celtic’s annual general meeting was abandoned before shareholders could question the board or vote on resolutions after chants of “sack the board” and other disruptive conduct. Director Ross Desmond defended his absent father, Dermot Desmond, and the club’s financially cautious operating model, while accusing aggressive sections of the fanbase of bullying and damaging Celtic’s reputation. Chair Peter Lawwell closed the meeting, and Celtic later condemned the conduct of some shareholders as unacceptable and disappointing.

Andy Robertson said leading Scotland to the 2026 World Cup was one of the greatest honours of his career after the team defeated Denmark 4-2 with two stoppage-time goals from Kieran Tierney and Kenny McLean. The 31-year-old Liverpool captain had placed considerable pressure on himself to qualify, viewing the tournament as potentially his final World Cup opportunity. He praised his teammates and their families, describing the achievement as a landmark moment for a generation of Scottish players and supporters.

Kieran Tierney scored a decisive stoppage-time goal in Scotland’s 4–2 victory over Denmark at Hampden Park, securing Scotland’s qualification for the World Cup. The goal capped a difficult, injury-affected period for the Celtic defender, who came off the bench and played in an unfamiliar right-back role. Scott McTominay and Lawrence Shankland also scored for Scotland, while Kenny McLean sealed the win with a strike from the halfway line. Tierney credited the squad’s hard work, resilience and togetherness for the achievement.

Connor Barron and Andy Irving have been added to Scotland’s squad after midfielders Billy Gilmour and Lennon Miller were ruled out ahead of the World Cup qualifier against Greece. Ross McCrorie is also unavailable for both matches, while Gilmour could return for the Denmark game on November 18. Scotland need at least a point in Greece to keep their hopes of finishing top of Group C alive and secure a potential route to the finals in North America.

Celtic supporters’ groups plan a pre-match protest demanding the removal of key board members, blaming the club’s crisis on poor transfer planning, weak governance and a breakdown in trust. The campaign follows Brendan Rodgers’ departure with assistant John Kennedy, after which principal shareholder Dermot Desmond publicly blamed Rodgers for creating a toxic atmosphere. The Celtic Fans Collective argued that responsibility ultimately rests with the board, while interim managers Martin O’Neill and Shaun Maloney take charge with Celtic eight points behind league leaders Hearts.

Martin O’Neill has returned to Celtic as interim manager, working alongside former player Shaun Maloney after Brendan Rodgers’ sudden resignation. O’Neill said he was shocked by the offer but wanted to help stabilize the club and give it time to appoint a permanent manager. Celtic principal shareholder Dermot Desmond criticized Rodgers over alleged division and disputes concerning his contract and transfer involvement, while the club sits eight points behind Scottish Premiership leaders Hearts.

Martin O’Neill has returned to Celtic as interim manager alongside Shaun Maloney, 20 years after first taking charge of the club. O’Neill said he was shocked by Dermot Desmond’s offer but accepted because of his previous relationship with Celtic and Desmond, stressing that the arrangement is short term until a permanent, younger coach is appointed. His immediate task is to stabilize results through matches against Rangers, Midtjylland and Kilmarnock. The appointment follows Brendan Rodgers’ resignation after a turbulent period marked by disagreements over recruitment, failed Champions League qualification and an increasingly bitter public dispute with Desmond.

Lutz Pfannenstiel has been appointed sporting director of Scottish Premiership club Aberdeen FC, with his tenure beginning in December. The former goalkeeper played for 25 clubs in 13 countries across all six FIFA confederations, but his career also included 101 days in a Singapore prison for alleged match-fixing, a charge he denies. He later held senior positions at Hoffenheim and St Louis City SC, where he was linked to player recruitment and the club’s successful MLS debut. Aberdeen chairman Dave Cormack said Pfannenstiel’s coaching, scouting and player-development experience will help the club pursue its football ambitions.

Aberdeen have appointed former German goalkeeper Lutz Pfannenstiel as sporting director, with him due to begin work in December. Pfannenstiel played for 25 clubs across 13 countries and all six FIFA confederations, while his career included a Singapore prison sentence over disputed match-fixing charges, a life-threatening on-field incident and several unusual episodes. He later held recruitment and leadership roles at Fortuna Düsseldorf, Hoffenheim and St. Louis City SC, helping identify players including Roberto Firmino and Joelinton. Aberdeen chairman Dave Cormack said Pfannenstiel’s technical knowledge, academy experience and global recruitment network would support the club’s sporting ambitions.

Scotland came from behind to defeat Greece 3–1 in a World Cup qualifier after being outplayed for much of the first hour. Ryan Christie, Lewis Ferguson and Lyndon Dykes scored in the comeback. Captain Andy Robertson praised the team’s togetherness and the supporters’ contribution, while acknowledging that Scotland must improve its early-game performance. Scotland is level on points with Group C leaders Denmark and will next host Belarus.

Scotland captain Andy Robertson has called on the Tartan Army to create a full-throated atmosphere when Belarus visit Hampden in a crucial World Cup qualifier. Scotland recovered from a poor first hour to beat Greece 3–1, with goals from Ryan Christie, Lewis Ferguson and Lyndon Dykes, leaving them level with Denmark on seven points. Robertson said the team and supporters must remain united but acknowledged Scotland must improve its play both on and off the ball from the start of matches.

Scotland came from behind to defeat Greece 3-1 at Hampden and maintain their strong start to World Cup qualifying. Kostas Tsimikas put Greece ahead, but Ryan Christie equalised almost immediately before Lewis Ferguson scored his first Scotland goal. Lyndon Dykes added a stoppage-time third after a Greek goalkeeping error. The result kept Scotland close to Group C leaders Denmark and opened a four-point gap over Greece, although Christie and Ferguson will miss the next match through suspension and Aaron Hickey appeared to suffer a hamstring injury.

Rangers dismissed head coach Russell Martin, assistant Matt Gill and first-team coach Mike Williamson after a 1-1 draw with Falkirk left the club in the bottom half of the Scottish Premiership. Martin managed only one league win in seven games and five victories in 17 matches across all competitions. Fan anger escalated after the match, requiring police to escort Martin from the stadium area and protect the team bus.

Celtic came from behind to defeat Motherwell 3-2, with Daizen Maeda scoring a stoppage-time diving header. Brendan Rodgers praised Maeda for maintaining his commitment despite an unsettled summer and playing out of position. Kelechi Iheanacho opened the scoring from the penalty spot, while Apostolos Stamatelopoulos scored twice for Motherwell before Benjamin Nygren’s equaliser. Motherwell manager Jens Berthel Askou expressed pride in his team’s attacking approach and said the result would not change his commitment to developing players through a possession-based style.

Scotland manager Steve Clarke has recalled experienced goalkeeper Craig Gordon for the October World Cup qualifiers against Greece and Belarus, replacing Zander Clark. Gordon is returning after a neck injury and has not played since May, while Angus Gunn and Liam Kelly also have limited recent club action. Clarke considers the lack of goalkeeper playing time a manageable short-term issue but is concerned about the period between November and March. Anthony Ralston and Kieran Tierney return to the squad, while Max Johnston and Dom Hyam are omitted.

Craig Gordon has been recalled to Scotland’s squad for October’s World Cup qualifiers against Greece and Belarus despite not playing for Hearts this season. He replaces fellow Hearts goalkeeper Zander Clark, who recently lost his club starting place to Alexander Schwolow. Max Johnston and Dom Hyam have also left the 23-man squad without replacements, while injured defenders Anthony Ralston and Kieran Tierney return. Angus Gunn and Liam Kelly complete the goalkeeper group.

Celtic captain Callum McGregor says the club still needs several new players to compete domestically and in Europe, despite its Champions League elimination by Kairat Almaty on penalties. Celtic’s failure to replace key departures and injuries has intensified criticism of the board, chief executive Michael Nicholson and manager Brendan Rodgers. Expected arrivals Michel-Ange Balikwisha and Marcelo Saracchi could strengthen the squad, but supporters fear the recruitment may come too late, particularly ahead of the derby against Rangers.

New football laws are expected to accelerate matches by awarding a corner when a goalkeeper holds the ball for more than eight seconds, replacing the rarely enforced six-second rule. Referees will visibly count down the final five seconds, while obstruction by an opponent will result in an indirect free-kick. A separate change allows penalty retakes after an accidental double touch and gives possession via a drop ball to the team that would have received it when the referee touches the ball. Scottish Football Association refereeing chief Willie Collum said goalkeepers and coaches are already adapting and that few problems are expected.

Tottenham’s 17-year-old winger Mikey Moore was omitted from the club’s pre-season squad for Hong Kong and is reportedly expected to leave on loan, with Rangers emerging as favourites. Moore has made 21 first-team appearances, scored against Elfsborg during Tottenham’s Europa League campaign and represented England Under-19s. Meanwhile, Newcastle United have signed Rangers academy players Oliver Goodbrand and Alfie Hutchison for their Under-18 squad.

New Rangers head coach Russell Martin wants his team to create an immediate connection with supporters when they face Panathinaikos in the first leg of the Champions League second qualifying round. He expects the side to display a dominant, intense and aggressive style, while acknowledging that his demand for playing out from the back will require patience and that the team is still developing. Martin believes the players’ positive response to his methods in training can translate into a committed performance at Ibrox and help generate powerful energy across the club.

Newcastle manager Eddie Howe said he is confident Alexander Isak will remain at the club despite omitting the striker from the squad for a friendly against Celtic amid transfer speculation linking him with Liverpool and Al-Hilal. Howe said Isak is fit, happy and training well, while acknowledging that football offers no absolute certainty and that Newcastle has received no formal approach. He also explained that Joelinton was not ready to play after a long injury. Newcastle’s 4-0 defeat was attributed partly to Celtic’s superior fitness. Howe expressed regret at Sean Longstaff’s move to Leeds, but said financial considerations and the Premier League’s Profitability and Sustainability Rules made the departure necessary.

Scotland responded to a defeat by Fiji with a commanding 41-12 victory over Samoa at Eden Park, finishing their Pacific Tour on a high. Seven players scored tries, while Scotland’s scrum and lineout maul proved especially dominant. Gregor Townsend praised the team’s focus after a short turnaround, Jamie Dobie’s versatility, and the players’ ability to show their “true identity” under pressure.

Scotland ended their Pacific tour with a commanding 41–12 victory over Samoa at Eden Park in Auckland. Seven different Scottish players scored tries, while Fergus Burke and George Horne contributed with conversions. After losing to Fiji the previous weekend, Scotland dominated the first half, led 22–0 at the break and finished the season with a second win in New Zealand.

Gregor Townsend has selected Rory Sutherland and Ewan Ashman in Scotland’s front row for the final summer-tour Test against Samoa at Eden Park. The pair will then join the British & Irish Lions, bringing the number of Scottish selections to 12. Scotland has made five changes after losing 29–14 to Fiji, including alterations in the second row, back row, centres and wings. Townsend said the team wants to finish the tour strongly, with improved contact work and discipline identified as key priorities.

Ewan Ashman and Rory Sutherland will start for Scotland against Samoa at Eden Park before joining the British and Irish Lions. Darcy Graham drops out after linking up with the Lions, while Scotland also make changes because of injuries to Tom Jordan and Jamie Ritchie. Rory Hutchinson, Stafford McDowall, Arron Reed and Andy Onyeama-Christie come into the starting side, and Fin Richardson could make his debut from the bench.

Scotland will be without Jamie Ritchie and Tom Jordan for their final summer tour match against Samoa after Ritchie suffered a foot injury and Jordan fractured his hand in the 29–14 defeat by Fiji. Matt Fagerson is expected to recover from a knock, while Ben Muncaster and Gregor Brown are in contention to return for the match at Eden Park in Auckland.

Russell Martin will begin his Scottish Premiership tenure as Rangers manager away to Motherwell on 2 August, before hosting Dundee and facing Celtic at Ibrox on 31 August. The opening schedule also includes Celtic’s home match against St Mirren, Falkirk’s return to the top flight against Dundee United, and several matches broadcast by Sky Sports and Premier Sports. The season includes a lighter festive schedule, six midweek rounds, an April 11 pre-split finale, and a final round concluding on May 17–18.

Scotland defeated Liechtenstein 4-0 in Vaduz after Steve Clarke switched to a 4-4-2 formation and challenged his strikers to take their opportunities. Che Adams responded with a hat-trick, while George Hirst scored his first international goal. Lennon Miller and Billy Gilmour impressed in midfield, and goalkeeper Ross Doohan made a clean debut. Clarke also introduced Josh Doig, Andy Irving, Connor Barron and Kieron Bowie, describing the youthful closing lineup as a glimpse of Scotland's future.

Scotland defeated Liechtenstein 4-0 in Vaduz, with Che Adams scoring a hat-trick and George Hirst adding his first international goal. Adams scored twice in the first half, Hirst converted shortly after the interval, and Adams completed his treble in stoppage time. Eighteen-year-old Lennon Miller impressed on his first start by contributing to two goals, while Ross Doohan, Doig, Andy Irving, Connor Barron and Kieron Bowie made their Scotland debuts.

Scotland manager Steve Clarke will seek additional goalkeeping cover after Angus Gunn was injured early in a 3-1 friendly defeat by Iceland, following a pre-match thigh injury to substitute Robby McCrorie. Twenty-two-year-old Cieran Slicker was forced into his senior debut despite having limited first-team experience and made errors as Scotland conceded three goals. With Craig Gordon, Liam Kelly and Zander Clark also unavailable, Slicker or 18-year-old Callan McKenna may be required for Monday’s match against Liechtenstein unless an experienced goalkeeper can be recruited.

Russell Martin has emerged as the leading candidate to become Rangers’ new head coach and is reportedly finalising personal terms. The former Rangers and Scotland defender was dismissed by Southampton in December after a 5-0 loss to Tottenham, despite having led the club to promotion the previous season. His potential appointment comes during significant changes at Rangers, including a majority-shareholding acquisition by an American consortium led by Andrew Cavenagh and 49ers Enterprises and Kevin Thelwell’s arrival as sporting director. Davide Ancelotti and Steven Gerrard were also considered.

Russell Martin has emerged as the late front-runner to become Rangers’ new head coach and was reportedly finalising personal terms. The vacancy arose after Philippe Clement was dismissed in February, while new sporting director Kevin Thelwell said the recruitment process would conclude within days. Martin arrives after being sacked by Southampton in December, despite previously guiding the club to Premier League promotion. His commitment to possession-based football drew criticism during Southampton’s difficult top-flight campaign, but he is familiar with Rangers after playing for the club in 2017–18. His appointment would come amid a major Rangers transition, following the takeover by an American consortium led by Andrew Cavenagh and 49ers Enterprises and a promised £20 million investment in the playing squad.

Aberdeen defeated Celtic 4–3 on penalties after a 1–1 draw at Hampden Park to win the Scottish Cup for the first time since 1990 and prevent Celtic from completing a sixth treble in nine seasons. Dimitar Mitov saved penalties from Callum McGregor and Alistair Johnston, while Celtic’s lead—created by Alfie Dorrington’s own goal—was canceled out by a late Kasper Schmeichel error. Aberdeen survived further Celtic pressure and extra time before converting all of their own penalties, giving Jimmy Thelin a major trophy in his first season as manager.

Derek McInnes will not manage Kilmarnock against Hearts after the clubs agreed terms for his expected move to Tynecastle. His removal, along with assistants Paul Sheerin and Alan Archibald, is intended to avoid an awkward situation after Kilmarnock supporters criticised him during a defeat at Motherwell. Chris Burke and Craig Clark will oversee the final match of the season, with Kilmarnock set to finish ninth. Burke praised McInnes's achievements, including taking the club from fourth in the Championship to European football, while stressing the need to focus on the match.

Derek McInnes will not manage Kilmarnock’s final William Hill Premiership match against Hearts after the club agreed that he and his staff should step aside ahead of his expected move to Tynecastle. Chris Burke and Craig Clark will handle preparation and matchday duties, with Paul Sheerin and Alan Archibald also excluded. The decision followed supporter criticism during Kilmarnock’s 3-0 defeat by Motherwell, which left the club set to finish ninth rather than seventh. McInnes is credited with taking Kilmarnock from fourth in the Championship to European football within two and a half years.

Scotland head coach Steve Clarke said his team lacked energy and failed to defend collectively in a 3-0 home defeat by Greece, which relegated Scotland from the Nations League’s top tier. Greece’s first goal shifted the momentum, while a loose pass from Ryan Christie contributed to the third. Clarke suggested that travel and insufficient recovery after the first leg may have affected the players and indicated he could make changes before Scotland’s World Cup qualifier in Greece in November. Greece, powered by a young squad and teenager Konstantinos Karetsas, secured a record fifth consecutive away win.