SPFL

Will We See a Non-Old Firm Title Winner in Our Lifetimes?

Scottish football has been dominated by Rangers and Celtic for decades, but could another club rise to break the Old Firm stronghold? Kris Boyd believes Hearts may be the team with the best chance to challenge the giants and disrupt the league’s status quo. Boyd explained his reasoning, drawing comparisons to Union Saint-Gilloise in Belgium:   “I look at what’s going on at Hearts, and I genuinely believe there could be [a chance], you only need to take a quick glimpse at what’s happening in Belgium at what’s happening with a similar set-up with Tony Bloom’s analytical company going in at Union St. Gilloise. There’s similar traits when you look at Belgium. When you take the big ones of Club Brugge and Anderlecht, you could argue they’re like Rangers and Celtic, Union have been able to come through and challenge.” As Bloom’s analytical approach propelled Union Saint-Gilloise to compete against Belgian heavyweights, Boyd sees potential for Hearts to do something similar. The question remains: could this be the dawn of a new era in Scottish football, where a team outside the Old Firm lifts the title? Time will tell.

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Rumours Zone: Schmeichel, Deeney, MacLeod, and More

Celtic and Rangers are prepared to make a move for 18-year-old midfielder Lennon Miller, but Motherwell is expected to hold out for a £4m fee for the Scotland Under-19 international (Daily Mail). Meanwhile, Rangers are keeping tabs on FCSB midfielder Darius Olaru, though the Romanian club would likely demand a substantial fee for the 26-year-old, who is contracted until 2028. Given Rangers’ current financial situation, this may prove challenging for the Scottish Premiership side. Celtic goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel anticipates a decision early next year regarding whether the club will activate a 12-month extension option in his contract, keeping the 38-year-old beyond the summer. (Tipsbladet) Troy Deeney reveals he turned down a £40,000-a-week offer from Celtic, choosing instead to sign with Birmingham City for £12,000 weekly after his release from Watford two years ago. (Under The Cosh podcast) St Johnstone are consulting with Benji Kimpioka and his agent as they aim to secure the Swedish striker’s future with an extended contract beyond next summer, before the 24-year-old is free to engage with other clubs in January. (The Courier) Empoli midfielder Liam Henderson is keen to stay in Italy beyond next summer, although the 28-year-old Scot has yet to be offered a contract extension despite making 14 appearances for the Serie A club this season. (Edinburgh Evening News) Scotland Under-19 winger Rory MacLeod hopes to make his loan from Dundee United to Southampton permanent, believing the move to the Premier League club has advanced his career. Southampton holds two options to buy him—one in January and one in the summer. (The Courier) Dundee managing director John Nelms has revealed the Premiership club could receive an additional financial boost in the future following 17-year-old centre-back Seb Lochhead’s £300,000 transfer to Wolverhampton Wanderers in August. (The Scotsman) Hibernian are preparing to recall Rory Whittaker from his loan at Spartans in January, concerned that the lack of game time with the League 2 club is limiting the 17-year-old right-back’s development. (Edinburgh Evening News) An American-based consortium is in advanced talks to acquire Dunfermline Athletic, with negotiations underway for a seven-figure purchase of the Scottish Championship club from current German owner DAFC Fussball GmbH. (Daily Record) Aberdeen manager Jimmy Thelin emphasises that securing European football again is crucial for the Premiership club’s ambition to establish a sustained challenge at the top of Scottish football. (Daily Record)  

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Defensive Cover for Saints as Declan John Pens Short Term Deal

St Mirren have announced the signing of defender Declan John on a short term deal until January with a view to extend. With the recent departure of Jaden Brown, manager Stephen Robinson was left short of defensive options. The 29 year old is no stranger to the Scottish game after spending time at Rangers on a loan spell in 2018.     A Welsh international, John brings a wealth of experience to the Paisley side and his new manager is delighted to have him on board: “We’ve seen his quality in his first couple of days in training. To add to the squad with the quality and background Declan has, I believe we are very lucky at this stage of the season.” The former Cardiff City man praised the club for his warm welcome and is raring to go: “From walking in, everything has been so positive and you can feel that in the changing room. It feels like a really good place to be” After the international break, Saints play host to Aberdeen and their new signing could make his debut in front of the home support.

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Saints must strike balance to arrest slump

St. Johnstone have made clear progress under Simo Valakari but their attacking efforts have been repeatedly undermined by a wayward defence. A glaring issue that must be addressed if they are to prevent a slow decline into relegation contention. Arriving on the 1st of October, Valakari’s immediate impact saw his side take six points from a possible nine. A marked increase from the club that had only managed four from twenty-one prior to his appointment. A defeat away to Rangers was arguably expected and it was followed by convincing wins over Ross County and Dundee. The hiring seemed to have given his players a new and finally positive outlook on football, with more possession than their opponents in every game bar the trip to Ibrox. A statistic that would have been unthinkable during Craig Levein’s tenure, who saw every ninety minutes as something to survive. However, the optimism since the Finn’s arrival has dampened slightly as the following three games produced no points. Flaws in the team’s make-up, namely at the back, have become all too obvious to fans. With difficult games against Kilmarnock (H), Rangers (H) and Aberdeen (A), those supporters will be wondering how to remedy such a strong imbalance in an otherwise promising squad. Attack dazzles as defence struggles Perhaps not even the most experienced mystiques could have predicted that the same team that mustered an abysmal 29 goals in 38 league games last season would find themselves with two goal scorers joint-top the charts. Yet in Nicky Clark and Benjamin Kimpioka, supported by Adama Sidibeh, Valakari has at his disposal an attacking trio with the fluency to turn Premiership defences inside out. The Saints are not wasteful with their chances either. Clark and Kimpioka’s goal conversion rates are 31% and 24% respectively, more than double those of Niklas Kuhn (14%) and Kyogo Furuhashi (10%). Whilst two of their last three goals have come from penalties, the opportunities from the spot are down in large parts to their application of pressure in the final third and Clark has shown an ice cold temperament from the spot Which is more than than can be said about the defensive half of the Saints’ set up. Fans of the Perth club can only dream of the challenge for the top half their side could launch if their defence had anywhere near the same promise their attacking ensemble has shown. Their twenty-seven goals conceded this season, including six at home to Celtic in September, make the Saints this season’s poorest defensive side. Statistics alone cannot tell the whole story however. The ease with which attacking players can ghost in to finish off crosses as Motherwell’s Tawanda Maswanhise did at the weekend points to a lack of communication and spatial awareness in the St. Johnstone ranks. Worse yet was Beni Baningime making his way towards goal from just inside the opposition half before Kenneth Vargas’ finish, bearing a strong resemblance to playing a much younger sibling on FIFA. So what happened to the side that had the (not fantastic by any stretch) seventh best defensive record in the league last season? Struggles for Mitov’s heirs Craig Levein must have thanked his lucky stars to have had Dimitar Mitov at his disposable when he arrived in Perth. Having been picked up from Cambridge United in the summer, the Bulgarian was without a doubt the leading contributor in keeping his side out of the bottom two, making more saves than any other keeper and was named both Player and Players’ Player of the Year for his efforts. Unfortunately for all who voted for him, Mitov’s release clause was met by then fellow strugglers Aberdeen and he left without giving a new contract a moment’s thought. Just a few months on the keeper is part of a remarkable Dons squad, as his replacements between the sticks continue to flounder. Josh Rae was signed in June but was soon dropped by Levein after a shaky outing at Dundee United. Academy graduate Ross Sinclair was called into action it but has similarly failed to convince. Brought off at half time against Hearts because of a muscle injury, the former Scotland under 21s keeper does not seem to have done enough to have earned himself a starting place when he returns to the squad. If neither show signs of improvement in the coming months, there is a good chance Valakari will look to dip into the transfer market as he aims to turn marginal errors into points on the board. Close calls haunt Saints Whether it be bad luck or poor organisation, St. Johnstone have found themselves ruing what could have been had it not been for VAR. Kimpioka was twice denied in their 3-1 defeat to St Mirren, with both himself and Kyle Cameron deemed offside for the respective efforts. During last week’s defeat to Motherwell, Jack Sanders was also condemned by the monitor, his potential equaliser in the 91st minute ruled to have been scored using his arm. On the plus side, St. Johnstone are showing that they can create chances and are only a few marginal calls from getting something from games. Yet that might be of little comfort as the side prepare to welcome Kilmarnock and Rangers before travelling to Aberdeen for arguably the most difficult test of the three. What began as an auspicious start to Simo Valakari’s tenure at the club could soon turn sour if his side cannot find a balance between their attacking and defensive efforts.

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David Gray to REMAIN as Hibs head coach

The Hibs board have come out in support of their head coach Hibs fans were left fearing the worst on Saturday evening for club legend David Gray after another defeat left them rooted to the bottom of the table. Fans let their ire towards those in the boardroom as a chorus of boos rained down upon them following Saturday’s 2-1 defeat to St. Mirren. After the defeat, the club’s board called a meeting, and they released a statement tonight regarding the club’s form. We are disappointed with the poor start to our current season, like all Hibernian FC supporters. We continue to work tirelessly in our quest to improve our performance and achieve the results we need on the pitch. After questions surrounding the manager, the board have reassured fans that they still have faith in the club legend. Through this challenging time, we support our Head Coach, David Gray and his management team. All departments are under pressure to deliver. Interestingly, they made a point of acknowledging investment group Black Knight Football and working with them to try and turn their season around.

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Rangers Edge Hearts in Tense Ibrox Clash

Rangers clinched a narrow 1-0 win over Hearts at Ibrox, narrowing the gap to nine points behind league leaders Celtic and Aberdeen. Philippe Clement’s squad showed early promise with an efficient opening that led to a quick goal from Cyriel Dessers. However, the momentum faded, and Rangers ended up holding on for the result rather than dominating the game. Dessers’ goal—his 10th of the season and third in as many games—was set up by James Tavernier, who returned to the starting lineup after being benched against Olympiakos. Tavernier surged down the right and aimed a shot at goal, with Dessers’ close-range touch steering it past Craig Gordon. Though Hearts have historically struggled at Ibrox, Neil Critchley’s side showed resilience after a shaky start, limiting Rangers’ control and frustrating the home supporters. A nervy moment came when John Souttar’s under-hit back-pass put Jack Butland under pressure, but the Rangers keeper held off Kenneth Vargas to keep his team ahead. Clear scoring chances remained rare. Early in the second half, Vargas nearly equalized but struck the post, while substitute Beni Baningime also threatened for Hearts. In stoppage time, Rangers’ Neraysho Kasanwirjo rattled the crossbar, but it made no difference as the home side came away with the win. This result continued Rangers’ extended unbeaten streak against Hearts, with the Tynecastle club still struggling in the lower part of the table.

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Celtic Edge Past Resilient Kilmarnock to Return to Premiership Summit

Celtic reclaimed their spot at the top of the Scottish Premiership, edging out a resilient Kilmarnock side in a high-stakes encounter, thanks to decisive moments from Callum McGregor and Nicolas Kuhn that preserved their unbeaten league run. This match was anything but a routine outing for the defending champions. Kilmarnock’s intensity and tactical ingenuity—led by Derek McInnes—saw them pressing high, fielding two strikers, and sending Corrie Ndaba forward from defence, putting Celtic under constant pressure. Kilmarnock’s early promise almost paid off when Marley Watkins struck the post after beating Celtic’s keeper, Kasper Schmeichel, in a tense one-on-one. It felt like McInnes’ side might be on the verge of an upset. Vassell’s shot was deflected, adding to the frustration, and Celtic only just managed to repel wave after wave of Kilmarnock attacks. But as halftime loomed, McGregor found his moment. After orchestrating a forward movement, his lofted cross bypassed both his teammate and Kilmarnock’s keeper, Robby McCrorie, to find the back of the net—a goal that was a hard blow for the home side, given the balance of play. Undeterred, Kilmarnock fought on, with Innes Cameron and Brad Lyons keeping the Celtic defence on edge. Schmeichel again came to Celtic’s rescue, saving brilliantly from Matty Kennedy, before Kuhn put the game beyond doubt, latching onto a pass from Alistair Johnston and finishing clinically. The German’s composure in front of goal once again proved pivotal. Despite the narrow loss, Kilmarnock left the pitch with heads held high. Their pressing game and brave man-to-man tactics made life difficult for Celtic, and their intensity disrupted the champions’ rhythm repeatedly. This display suggests that Kilmarnock’s league position could rise swiftly if they maintain this level of play. For Celtic, this game was a reminder of the grit required to defend their title. McGregor’s leadership and Kuhn’s relentless scoring form underscore their resilience. Emerging victorious from such a grueling encounter should please Brendan Rodgers, as it’s precisely these hard-fought wins that can define a championship season.

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Scottish Premiership Sunday Preview: Kilmarnock v Celtic and Rangers v Hearts

Kilmarnock v Celtic (15:00 GMT) Kilmarnock faces a setback as key defender Stuart Findlay is out for several months following an ankle injury at Dundee. Midfielder Liam Polworth could return to bolster the squad, while Kyle Magennis continues his recovery. Celtic, meanwhile, sees slight concerns with American centre-backs Cameron Carter-Vickers and Auston Trusty, who both missed Friday’s training but may still feature. Odin Thiago Holm, however, remains sidelined with ongoing calf issues. Rangers v Hearts (17:00 GMT) Rangers welcome Ianis Hagi and Danilo back into the squad, as they weren’t included in the recent European lineup. Ridvan Yilmaz and Rabbi Matondo may also make appearances, though Oscar Cortes isn’t quite ready. Tom Lawrence, unfortunately, is out for up to six weeks due to a leg injury. Hearts head coach Neil Critchley has no new fitness concerns and is likely to pick an unchanged side. Yutaro Oda and Calem Nieuwenhof are nearing a return but aren’t expected to feature at Ibrox.

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Dons Surge Past Dundee with Dominant Second-Half Performance to Go Top of the Premiership

Aberdeen regained momentum in the Scottish Premiership, moving above Celtic after a powerful second-half display at Pittodrie, rebounding impressively from their League Cup semi-final setback against Dundee. Ante Palaversa opened the scoring with a composed finish, and just minutes later, Topi Keskinen doubled the lead, slipping the ball past Dundee goalkeeper Jon McCracken. Although Dundee fought back briefly, with Simon Murray heading home after an earlier missed penalty, Aberdeen quickly reasserted control. Substitute Vicente Besuijen, just seconds after coming on, latched onto Kevin Nisbet’s pass and restored Aberdeen’s two-goal cushion, with Nisbet himself adding a fourth via a deflected strike. Manager Jimmy Thelin praised his side’s character and composure, particularly in the strong opening of the second half. “We adjusted at half-time, focusing on staying calm,” he said. “I’m thrilled with the players’ response and the impact of our substitutes.” Dundee’s head coach Tony Docherty felt his side had been the better team in the first half and rued their missed chances and set-piece goals conceded. “It’s disappointing how we let those goals in,” Docherty commented. “Aberdeen didn’t have to do much to score, and we need to eliminate individual mistakes.” Despite a competitive first half and strong initial efforts from Dundee’s Oluweaseun Adewumi and Seb Palmer-Houldon, they couldn’t sustain the pressure or secure a first league victory at Pittodrie since 2004. Full time score Aberdeen 4-1 Dundee Attendance: 19,274

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Dundee United Continue Strong Premiership Run with Commanding Win Over Ross County

Dundee United’s impressive start to life back in the Scottish Premiership rolled on as they comfortably overcame Ross County, solidifying their fourth-place position in the league. Manager Jim Goodwin, fresh from signing a contract extension earlier in the week, saw his faith in his squad rewarded with a composed and professional display. After a balanced first half with few clear-cut chances, United burst into life right after the break, leaving Ross County unable to keep up with the change in intensity. The breakthrough nearly came when Vicko Sevelj rattled the post with a powerful shot, a sign of what was to follow. Moments later, Will Ferry delivered an excellent cross from the left, perfectly finding Luca Stephenson, who dove to head past Ross Laidlaw, giving United a deserved lead. With momentum firmly on their side, United pressed forward in search of a second, and their attacking intent soon paid off. Sam Dalby broke free from the County defence and confidently slotted the ball home, doubling United’s lead and putting them in full control. Ross County had looked solid at the back in the first half, but they struggled to create meaningful chances as United’s defence held firm. Manager Don Cowie’s side found it difficult to unlock the Dundee United backline, with goals proving increasingly elusive in recent matches. The win was sealed in style when 17-year-old Owen Stirton, introduced off the bench, headed in from close range to cap off a memorable night for United. His goal brought enthusiastic celebrations from the home fans, who have been buoyed by their team’s strong start to the campaign. While newly promoted teams often focus on simply securing their place in the top division, United’s early performances suggest that they could aim even higher. Heading into the international break, this victory gives Goodwin’s side an opportunity to reflect on the progress they’ve made. The manager’s recent contract extension provides much-needed stability, and the team’s performances demonstrate a growing belief that they belong in the Premiership. Goodwin was delighted with his squad’s efforts, particularly their second-half display. “We started a bit slow, but that second-half performance was really dominant,” he said. “We played with great tempo, moved the ball well, and delivered quality crosses into the box. Scoring three fantastic goals makes this our most complete performance so far.” Ross County’s manager Don Cowie expressed disappointment in his team’s response after conceding. “I expect more from the players,” Cowie said. “You have to react well after conceding, and we didn’t show that resilience. Our away form is something we need to address urgently if we want to make a mark this season.” For County, the search for an away league win continues, and they’ll be hoping to rediscover their scoring touch as they prepare for a crucial home fixture against Motherwell. While there are signs of improvement from last season, finding consistency will be key to climbing the table. With this win, Dundee United are showing the league that they’re not merely content with survival; they’re out to make an impact and are quickly proving that they belong among Scotland’s elite teams. Full time: Dundee Utd 3-0 Ross County Attendance: 8,349

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