Thursday's Scottish Gossip

FOOTBALL GOSSIP

Rangers captain Lee McCulloch insists the players owe Ally McCoist a Scottish Cup victory against Dundee United following their defeat in the Ramsdens Cup final. (Various)

Rangers can reach the Scottish Cup final if they match the energy of Dundee United's youngsters in Saturday's semi-final at Ibrox, according to former Gers striker Sandy Clark.

"I was at the Ramsdens Cup final and it was a poor performance," he said. "To get any joy this weekend, they will have to find energy."

Full story: Sun (print edition)

Raith Rovers manager Grant Murray hailed Lee Robinson after he handed his Ramsdens Cup winner's medal to injured goalkeeper David McGurn. McGurn played in all four of the previous rounds before tearing his Achilles tendon in October.

"Lee kept us in the game at times and that spirit and gesture is magnificent," said Murray.

Lee McCulloch says the Rangers players owe manager Ally McCoist a Cup win

Full story: Sun (print edition)

Aberdeen striker Scott Vernon believes the Dons have the edge going into Sunday's Scottish Cup semi-final against St Johnstone. Aberdeen have yet to suffer defeat against the Saints in a knockout competition, including 10 previous Scottish Cup ties.

"Our record against St Johnstone this season gives us real belief that we can do it again," said Vernon. (Various)

Jackie McNamara and Tommy Wright will learn later whether they will be in the dugout for Sunday's Scottish Cup semi-final at Ibrox. The pair, who clashed during a fiery Premiership clash last month, face a disciplinary hearing this afternoon.

Full story: Record

Republic of Ireland boss Martin O'Neill believes next summer's friendly against England will be ideal preparation for facing Scotland in the Euro 2016 qualifiers. (Record)

Celtic are going Dutch in a bid to have the perfect playing surface next season... the turf will be grown from a farm in the Netherlands, near the German border, which was used for the pitches at the 2006 World Cup.

Full story: Record

Lee McCulloch insists he did not touch Celtic midfielder Beram Kayal in the challenge during an Old Firm game in 20011, that Kayal claims was an attempt to injure him. (Various)

Hibs midfielder Alex Harris says the players at Easter Road need to "grow up" and accept they're in a relegation dogfight. (Various)

Rangers supporters who pay for their season tickets in instalments by direct debit are being automatically enrolled next season - even though the Ibrox club has yet to inform them of price rises.

Full story: Herald

OTHER GOSSIP

New Scotland rugby coach Vern Cotter will have sole charge of the national side when he succeeds Scott Johnson in June.

Full story: The Scotsman