Sunday's Scottish gossip

FOOTBALL GOSSIP

Celtic chief executive Peter Lawwell has told Uefa president Michel Platini that he is welcome at Celtic Park, despite him saying his former club Juventus were certain to progress in their Champions League last 16 tie against the Scots. (The Sun)

Scotland and Vancouver Whitecaps striker Kenny Miller, 33, says he would jump at the chance to return to Rangers, where he has been training during the MLS break. (The Sun)

Having seen Jamie Murphy leave for Sheffield United, Motherwell defender Stevie Hammell fears he and midfielder Keith Lasley will be the last men standing at Fir Park as they are the only two top-team players whose contracts go beyond the summer. (Sunday Mail)

Rangers manager Ally McCoist urges investors who bought shares in the club recently to stay in it for the long haul - the share value has risen by almost a third since they were put on sale the week before Christmas. (Sunday Express)

And McCoist feels that the only thing he is "faced with is failure" because people simply assume that he will lead the club through successive promotions into the Scottish Premier League. (Mail on Sunday)

Celtic full-back Mikael Lustig says he is delighted to be back home relaxing in Sweden during the winter break after a frenetic year of playing. (Various)

Kelvin Wilson, who will be suspended when Celtic resume their title defence, sees Thomas Rogne as his ideal replacement at centre-half. Manager Neil Lennon will also be without Efe Ambrose, who will be at the Africa Cup of Nations. (Mail on Sunday)

Hearts full-back Kevin McHattie praises the helpfulness of his former team-mate and fellow defender Ryan McGowan, who has left to play in China. (Sunday Mail)

St Mirren winger Gary Teale reveals he is desperate to score a goal in the top flight after failing to do so in 54 games in England's top league and having played 54 matches in the SPL without hitting the net. (Various)

Rangers defender Chris Hegarty hopes the team can beat Dundee United in the Scottish Cup at Tannadice as a thank you to the fans who have supported the club during their troubled times. (Sunday Express)

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger is preparing an £8m bid for Wigan midfielder James McCarthy, 22.

Full story: Daily Mirror