Friday's Scottish Gossip

FOOTBALL GOSSIP

Dundee United manager Jackie McNamara is considering appealing against his touchline ban, a move that would allow him to take his place in the dugout for Saturday's Scottish Cup semi-final against Rangers at Ibrox.

Should his appeal fail, the Tangerines boss could risk being banned for the Scottish Cup final, if United get there. (Various)

McNamara believes Rangers' Ramsdens Cup final defeat by Raith Rovers could make the Ibrox side more dangerous in the Scottish Cup semi-final.

"Possibly Rangers losing at the weekend makes our life even more difficult, given the stick they've taken," said McNamara. (Various)

Rangers defender Richard Foster insists the pressure is on Dundee United's highly-rated youngsters to live up to their tag as favourites, going into the Scottish Cup semi-final.

Full story: Sun (print edition)

St Johnstone striker Stevie May hopes to have the last laugh on Aberdeen fans in the Scottish Cup semi-final

Rangers goalkeeper Cammy Bell is out of the Scottish Cup semi-final due to a concussion he suffered in training, with stand-in Steve Simonsen revealing on Twitter he's ready to "step up" for the match against Dundee United. (Various)

Former Aberdeen midfielder Jim Bett has backed the Dons to secure a cup double this season, ahead of Sunday's Scottish Cup semi-final showdown with St Johnstone. (Various)

Saints striker Stevie May admits the stick he took from Aberdeen fans during his side's 4-0 defeat in the League Cup semi-final has fired him up for the last four match against the Dons.

"It would make it that bit sweeter if we were able to turn them over in the semi-final," said May. (Various)

Sheffield United manager Nigel Clough is following his dad Brian's route to success by packing his side with Scottish talent.

Clough's team take on Hull in the FA Cup semi-final this weekend, with Scots Stefan Scougall, Jamie Murphy, Ryan Flynn, Bob Harris, Stephen McGinn and Niall Collins all pushing for places. (Various)

The Irish FA are hoping to organise a glamour friendly between Celtic and Barcelona in Dublin in August.

Full story: Sun (print edition)

Other Gossip

Scottish boxer Ricky Burns is set to return to the ring in June, after losing his WBO lightweight title against Terence Crawford last month. Mexico's Javier Prieto is being lined up as a possible opponent.

Full Story: (Herald)