THE ESSENTIAL

Rangers Rangers manager Walter Smith hailed Steven Davis after the midfielder scored the opening goal in the 2-0 Scottish League Cup semi-final victory over St Johnstone. "He's been playing extremely well," Smith said. "It is asking a lot of him, but every game we have we are relying a lot on his energy. I don't know what he's done, but he's been adding goals to his performances at the present moment, which obviously we're delighted with."

Celtic Robbie Keane's Celtic debut ended in defeat as the Bhoys were beaten 1-0 at Kilmarnock. Chris Maguire's goal early in the second half was enough to separate the teams.

Heart of Midlothian Izale McLeod has warned Csaba Laszlo he is not prepared to wait for the Hearts boss to make his mind up about a loan deal.

Dundee United Bohemians have warned Dundee United that they will have to match their substantial valuation of manager Pat Fenlon.

Aberdeen Aberdeen manager Mark McGhee has revealed he is already looking at making Paul Marshall's loan move at Pittodrie permanent.

St Johnstone St Johnstone have released Jonatan Johansson after the former Rangers striker failed to impress during his short-term stay with the club.

Hamilton Hamilton manager Billy Reid has confirmed the Accies are in talks with more than one club over the sale of star man James McArthur.

Rangers Sporting Lisbon have expressed an interest in Pedro Mendes amid reports Rangers could sell the midfielder to finance a new deal for Kris Boyd.

Celtic Belarus defender Dmitry Verkhovtsov has accused SPL giants Celtic of wasting his time following his three-day trial with the club.

Celtic Middlesbrough remain in talks with Celtic after Boro boss Gordon Strachan attempts to bolster his squad with the signings of three Bhoys stars.

Heart of Midlothian Hearts have revived their interest in Charlton striker Izale McLeod and could be about to sign him on loan, according to the player's agent.

Rangers Goalkeeper Neil Alexander has revealed he will consider quitting Rangers if he continues to play second fiddle to Allan McGregor.

Dundee United Dundee United goalkeeper Nicky Weaver has admitted he is "fully open to all offers" as his short time at Tannadice comes to an end.

Celtic Blackburn manager Sam Allardyce has played down speculation linking midfielder Morten Gamst Pedersen with Old Firm giants Celtic.

Rangers Kevin Thomson believes the Scottish Football Association are unlikely to find a better candidate for the Scotland job than Walter Smith.