Wednesday's Scottish gossip

FOOTBALL GOSSIP

Former Celtic striker Chris Sutton has urged manager Ronny Deila to prioritise the Europa League. The Parkhead club kick off their campaign on Thursday night away to Red Bull Salzburg. (Various)

And Sutton has unlikely backing in his plea from Argentina superstar Gonzalo Higuain with the Napoli star saying Celtic can win the trophy. (Sun)

The referee dubbed "scandalous" and "disgraceful" by Porto president Jorge Pinto da Costa has been put in charge for the clash in Austria. Artur Dias was criticised for his handling of Porto's match with Benfica in January. (Daily Record)

Hearts head coach Robbie Neilson has allayed fears over trio Kevin McHattie, Sam Nicholson and Jordan McGhee, saying the knocks they sustained in the weekend draw with Dumbarton are not as bad as first feared, and all three are in consideration for Saturday's game with Cowdenbeath. (Various)

There is also good news for Falkirk's Kieran Duffie who could be back playing by the end of the month, however Raith Rovers goalkeeper Kevin Cuthbert has been ruled out until December after having surgery on his shoulder. (Sun)

Sunderland manager Gus Poyet has told challenged Scotland striker Steven Fletcher to win his place back after he was omitted from the squad for the 2-2 draw with Tottenham on Saturday. (Various)

Scotland midfielder Jo Love says the time has finally arrived for them to qualify for the World Cup finals. Anna Signeul's side have already secured at least a play-off spot after defeating the Faroe Islands 9-0 on Saturday, but could qualify automatically if they can match or better the 3-1 win Sweden posted at Fir Park in June. The match is live on BBC Alba at 5pm. (Various)

OTHER GOSSIP

Ruaridh Jackson could miss the autumn Test series after the Scotland playmaker suffered suspected knee ligament damage playing for Wasps (Daily Record)

Berwick Bandits will be without Steen Jensen as they enter speedway's Premier League play-off, with the 29-year-old Danish ride missing due to a groin injury (Daily Record)