BREAKING NEWS: Celtic and Rangers excluded, impressive goal from Hearts loan player, renewal of contract

Aberdeen is reportedly nearing the selection of a new permanent manager, with the club’s leadership now deliberating among three potential candidates. They aim to finalize the appointment before Saturday’s crucial cinch Premiership fixture against Ross County at Pittodrie. The Dons, who have been without a manager since interim Neil Warnock’s departure over two weeks ago, currently sit in ninth place in the league, just three points ahead of County in 11th. Several individuals have been linked to the managerial position, including Neil Lennon, Jimmy Thelin, Michael O’Neill, and Zeljko Sopic.

Meanwhile, Dexter Lembikisa, on loan from Wolves to Hearts, showcased his talent with a remarkable long-range goal for Jamaica in their 1-0 victory over Panama in a Nations League match held in Arlington, Texas. The 20-year-old midfielder’s unstoppable strike just before halftime provided the Reggae Boyz with the lead. Despite receiving a booking later in the match, Lembikisa’s contribution helped secure the win for Jamaica.

Reports suggest that Scotland midfielder Scott McTominay is on the verge of being presented with a fresh three-year contract. Despite significant speculation linking the 27-year-old with a transfer to West Ham during the January window, it’s now reported that he will instead receive an enticing contract extension to remain at Old Trafford. McTominay has proven his value by contributing crucial goals throughout the season, making him a key figure for Manchester United.

Horn leaves Rose

Bonnyrigg Rose has announced the departure of their longstanding manager, Robbie Horn. The decision comes following the team’s recent struggles, as they currently reside third from bottom in League Two, merely two points away from securing safety. The choice to part ways was made in the aftermath of their 2-0 loss to Dumbarton last Saturday. Horn had held the reins at New Dundas Park for an impressive 1,963 days, during which he led the team from the Lowland League to promotion.

Miller tips Shankland

Kenny Miller, the former Rangers, Celtic, and Scotland striker, has put forward his suggestions for the player of the year shortlist, naming Jack Butland, James Tavernier, Matt O’Riley, and Lawrence Shankland. However, Miller believes that Shankland, the in-form Hearts talisman, surpasses his Old Firm counterparts. Miller expressed his conviction, stating, “As we sit here now, I think Lawrence Shankland tops the lot of them.”

He further emphasized his belief that Shankland is poised to be crowned Scotland’s Player of the Year, asserting that it’s challenging to dispute this assessment. Miller admitted to initially questioning Shankland’s ability to excel in the top flight a couple of years ago but acknowledged that Shankland silenced doubters by scoring 24 goals for Hearts in the league last year. He highlighted Shankland’s remarkable achievement of already scoring 21 goals in the league and 28 in total for club and country, surpassing his previous season’s tally. Miller underscored the significance of Shankland’s accomplishment for a non-Old Firm team, noting the disparity in quality of service compared to Rangers and Celtic strikers. Despite this, Shankland has outperformed his counterparts at those clubs by a considerable margin.