The Rumour Mill: Monday’s football news and gossip

Daniel Cousin watched the Rangers win at Dunfermline on Saturday. Picture: SNS

Published on Monday 13 February 2012 09:49

In today’s Rumour Mill: Sone Aluko says Daniel Cousin will be a welcome addition; Celtic set to sign up Brazilian youngster; War of words between Paulo Sergio and Kenny Shiels continues; plus the rest of the day’s football news and gossip.

Rangers winger Sone Aluko believes new signing Daniel Cousin will make a difference to their title challenge. The former Aberdeen player remembers coming up against the Gabon international and said: “He was a handful to play against... He might not play every game, but I’m sure he’ll still bring a lot to the team.” (Express)

Dave King has been axed as a Rangers director after questioning owner Craig Whyte’s regime. South African-based King was told by email on Friday he would be removed from the club’s board. (Record)

Celtic are being linked with a £500,000 move for Brazilian teenager Edinho. The 17-year-old plays for Portuguese side Olhanense and has impressed Parkhead scouts. The Glasgow club expect a deal to be concluded this week to bring the player to Scotland in the summer. (Various)

Inverness Caledonian Thistle captain Richie Foran has urged referee Steven McLean to rescind the red card shown to Celtic defender Daniel Majstorovic in Saturday’s meeting of the two sides. Celtic are set to appeal the decision. (Various)

The spat between Hearts manager Paulo Sergio and his Kilmarnock counterpart Kenny Shiels rumbles on, after the Tynecastle boss refused to shake hands with his rival at the weekend. The fall-out came after Shiels suggested Sergio should quit over Hearts owner Vladimir Romanov’s interference with team selection. Killie striker Paul Heffernan has jumped to the defence of Shiels, insisting the players are 100 per cent behind their outspoken manager. (Scotsman)

Craig Levein has fought off a desperate bid from England caretaker manager Stuart Pearce and secured the services of Blackpool winger Matt Phillips for Scotland. The former England under-19 and under-20 international has a grandfather from Ayrshire and has chosen to play for Scotland boss Levein. He could feature in the friendly clash against Slovenia on February 29. (Express)

Meanwhile, Scotland captain Darren Fletcher has given Levein some hope he may yet lead out his country for the World Cup qualifiers by revealing that his health is improving. The Manchester United midfielder said: “I’m still on medication, I’m still not training, but slowly but surely I’m getting better.” (Sun)

IN BRIEF

• Former Rangers youth player Stevie Kinniburgh is set for a trial with St Mirren this week.

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