FOOTBALL GOSSIP

Scotland manager Gordon Strachan has vowed to make the nation proud again after signing a new two-year deal. (Various)

Strachan is confident he can guide the national side to qualification for the 2018 World Cup in Russia. (Various)

Celtic defender Efe Ambrose insists that the boo boys won’t force him out at the club, adding that he wants to be part of Celtic’s “unstoppable” title charge. (Various)

Derek McInnes is confident Aberdeen will arrest their current run of poor form after watching the Dons slip to their fourth straight defeat following the loss to Ross County. (Various)

The Tartan Army should demand success rather than celebrating failure, according to former Scotland defender Richard Gough.

Full story: Daily Record

Gordon Strachan isn’t just the best man to lead Scotland – he’s the only man, says former Scotland midfielder Gary McAllister.

Ross County boss Jim McIntyre, after watching his side beat Aberdeen to move up to third in the table, has warned it is still early days in their bid to secure a top six spot. (Various)

Mark McGhee says agreeing a second spell as Motherwell manager feels like returning home. (Various)

Scotland defender Grant Hanley aims to use the experience of facing Poland striker Robert Lewandowski to help his club side Blackburn this season.

“Lewandowski’s definitely up there with the best I’ve faced,” said Hanley.

Full story: Scottish Sun

Keeping John Hughes at Inverness CT, following an approach from Premiership rivals Dundee United, is “brilliant” for the Highland outfit, according to midfielder Ryan Christie.

Full story: Daily Express

OTHER GOSSIP

Vern Cotter says Scotland will face Australia in confident mood – with a place in the semi-finals of the rugby World Cup at stake.

“The focus is to win,” he says. “That’s the mentality we’re taking.”

Full story: The National 

The Scots should have “a real go” at favourites Australia and cause them problems at Twickenham, according to former Scotland fly-half Craig Chalmers.

Full story: The Herald

Andy Murray expects “a tough match” against Novak Djokovic in the last four of the Shanghai Masters. (Various)