The Long Ball: McInnes Lined Up for Watford Job

In another installment of The Long Ball, Watford are lining up St. Johnstone manager Derek McInnes as their next manager after he was shortlisted alongside Watford coach Malky Mackay.

Hibs have made their first signing of the summer despite having no manager. Moroccan midfielder Youness Bengelloun, has signed on the dotted line and will make the journey to Easter Road after he plays for his country in the World Cup qualifiers.

Spanish midfielder Aaron Niguez, dubbed a wonderkid by the Scottish press, has returned to Valencia, after failing to make the grade at Ibrox coupled with financial issues with the Spanish club and rumours surrounding his attitude at not playing regular first team football. And Airdrie boss Kenny Black has stated that the club will not be going part time despite being relegated to the Second Division.

McInnes lined up for Watford job

Watford have selected St Johnstone boss Derek McInnes as one of three men on a shortlist to replace Brendan Rodgers, after he left to become Reading manager. One candidate has still not been named, however the third is Watford first team coach Malky Mackay. Mackay is the favourite but the Hornets are looking at McInnes, who has steered Saints to the SPL.

His exit would be a blow for Saints as they gear up for the top flight for the first time since 2002.

Managerless Hibs sign up Moroccan

Hibs have snapped up Moroccan midfielder star Youness Bengelloun, despite the Easter Road manager’s chair being vacant. Mixu Paatelainen quit Easter Road just over a week ago. But that hasn’t stopped them from snapping up Bengelloun from Cypriot club Olympiakos Nicosia.

The 26-year-old Paris-born ace will join Hibs after he plays for his country in two World Cup qualifiers later this month. Bengelloun has been around a bit during his career and has featured for a variety of clubs including Paris St Germain, Neuchatel Xamax, Alaves and Panserraikos

Spanish wonderkid returns to Valencia after failed Rangers stint

On loan midfielder Aaron Niguez is heading back to Valencia after his spell in Scotland was cut short. The 20-year-old made only one start for the Ibrox side and still had another year of his deal to run.

However it is reported that financial problems mean Valencia are set for a fire sale and that could pave the way for Niguez to make the first team. He said, “It’s been tough as I’d liked to have played more games.”

But there have been one or two rumours flying about that Niguez was miffed at life on the bench at Ibrox, with the likes of DaMarcus Beasley, Lee McCulloch and co. all being favoured ahead of him.

Airdrie stay Full Time in the Second Division

Airdrie Boss Kenny Black has stated that the club will not be going part time despite relegation from the First Division. He said, “We will have a tight squad of just 14 or 15 but we are staying full time.”

The question is can a squad of just 14 or 15 players tackle the Second Division? What happens when injuries or suspensions occur?