Monday's Scottish gossip

FOOTBALL GOSSIP

Dundee United chairman Steven Thompson has branded his Celtic counterpart John Reid a disgrace over his criticism following the SPL's decision to accept the Sky-ESPN broadcasting deal. (Daily Record, The Sun)

Hibs striker Derek Riordan says Easter Road fans will see the best of him this season under the guidance of new manager John Hughes. (Various)

Dundee United manager Craig Levein says midfielder Prince Buaben has been tested for malaria after contracting a virus during his summer holiday in Africa. (Various)

Slovakian striker Adam Nemec says he is interested in a £750,000 move to Hearts from current club Racing Genk. (The Herald, Daily Express)

Former St Mirren midfielder Simon Lappin, now at Norwich City, says he acted as a translator for the Canaries squad during the recent tour of Scotland, where his team-mates had trouble with the Scottish accent. (Daily Express)

Birmingham City manager Alex McLeish says he signed Barry Ferguson from Rangers because he is a "true grit Brit". (Daily Express)

OTHER GOSSIP

Veteran Tom Watson was left to rue a missed eight-foot putt on the 18th green at Turnberry for victory before eventually losing the Open to Stewart Cink after a four-hole play-off. (Various)

Scotland's David Drysdale says he is relishing the prospect of next year's Open at St Andrews after playing in all four rounds in his Open bow at Turnberry. (Various)