Scottish football gossip: Celtic sweating over the fitness of key player ahead of Ross County clash; Lennon calls for more protection for his players and Scott Bain keen on permanent Celtic deal

Tierney a doubt for Dingwall

Celtic could be without Kieran Tierney for their clash with Ross County, with the defender still nursing a calf injury that forced him to miss Scotland’s friendly double-header against Costa Rica and Hungary.

Brendan Rodgers could opt to play Marvin Compper at left back, or select a back three. Jozo Simunovic is suspended so Jack Hendry will likely start alongside Kristoffer Ajer. (Various)

Celtic could be without Kieran Tierney for the Ross County clash. Picture: SNS Group

Lennon wants more protection of players

Hibs boss Neil Lennon has again called for better protection for his players from match officials.

Lennon is serving a three-game touchline ban following his reaction to being sent to the stand during a game against Kilmarnock, but saw his side come in for rough treatment against St Johnstone before the international break.

Lennon said: “Brutality is the wrong word, it’s the coarseness of the tackling that has upset me; the lateness and off-the-ball stuff and amount of fouls given against my team.” (Evening News)

Bain eyes permanent deal at Celtic

Scott Bain is hopeful his loan spell at Celtic could be made permanent in the close season.

The goalkeeper will be a free agent when his short spell at Parkhead ends in the summer but Bain has no guarantees of a permanent deal,

Hibs are said to be keen on bringing the No 1 back to Easter Road but Bain said today: “I’d love to stay and if I continue to play well then it stands me in good stead.” (Daily Record)

Donnelly urges Hoops to make McGinn move

Simon Donnelly believes John McGinn could become Scott Brown’s long-term successor for club and country and has expressed surprise that Celtic have not already made a move for the Hibs midfielder.

“I’m surprised that Celtic didn’t have a sniff at him in the January transfer window, and I wouldn’t be surprised if he ends up there,” Donnelly said of the Hibs player who is contracted until summer 2019.

“I’m surprised Celtic haven’t gone for him yet; he has the mentality to handle it.” (The Scotsman)

McCoist expects clarity on Rangers manager job

Ally McCoist believes a clearer picture on the identity of the next Rangers manager will emerge imminently – and it could be revealed before the Old Firm Scottish Cup semi-final.

McCoist hinted that decisions are being taken behind the scenes in advance of the clash with Celtic at Hampden on 15 April and said: “I’d expect a bit of clarity in the coming week.

“I’m not going to say who should get the job or that Graeme should get it, but I believe there’ll be some clarity and light shed on it in the coming week.” (The Scotsman)

Rumour Mill: Celtic injury fear | Lennon slams McGinn treatment | Bain keen on permanent deal