Saturday's Scottish gossip

FOOTBALL GOSSIP

The back pages of Scotland's newspapers paint a grim picture following Scotland's 2-1 defeat by Wales, with the Daily Mail's "World's End" among the headlines.

And several outlets believe Craig Levein's days as national coach are limited with the Daily Record suggesting he needs a victory against Belgium on Tuesday to keep his job and the Sun claiming the boss is "on the brink".

Levein is under pressure following defeat in Cardiff

Levein was angered by the officials' decision to disallow the goal after Steven Fletcher had headed home when Scotland were one up against Wales. (Scotsman)

But Shaun Maloney admits the referee was correct to award the Welsh a penalty following his challenge on Gareth Bale, insisting the winger, who converted the spot-kick before scoring the winner, did not dive. (Various)

Liverpool are interested in buying a new striker in the new year, and may take advantage of the breakdown in contract talks between Gary Hooper, 24, and Celtic. (Various)

Aberdeen's Ryan Jack twisted his ankle and was stretchered on his Scotland Under-21 debut against USA Under-20s, meaning he may miss upcoming games for the Dons. (Sun)

All 12 member clubs have received the outstanding £300,000 due them from the Scottish Premier League, with the money generated from commercial deals paid out later than usual this season. (Various)

Queen's Park are making progress in securing an alternative venue for their home matches during the period that Hampden Park will be undergoing refurbishment but have described reports of an agreement to play at Airdrie United's Excelsior Stadium as "premature". (Daily Record)

OTHER GOSSIP

Scottish cyclist David Millar has called for the International Cycling Union's Hein Verbruggen to resign over the Lance Armstrong doping revelations. (Various)