Scottish Premiership

FOOTBALLERS often switch to coaching or punditry once they call it a day and hang up their boots. Many of course decide against that route, but it’s rare to see a former pro take to the road to become a driving instructor instead.
This former Celtic star is now a driving instructorCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
He now owns his own driving school
Ex-Celtic goalie Carl Muggleton is the exception though as the Englishman now has his own business teaching the next generation the rules of the road.
The stopper, who spent six months at Parkhead in 1994, decided to stay involved in the beautiful game when he retired in 2008 before taking up the unusual new career path.
After leaving Mansfield Town, where he played his last match, he joined Notts County as a part-time goalkeeping coach.
He then teamed up with Gillingham in a similar role before leaving for Barnet in 2016.

Muggleton was appointed head of recruitment at Chesterfield in May 2018 but left the club in December that year after manager Martin Allen was sacked.
But despite keeping himself busy with several clubs over the past few years, he also decided to become a qualified instructor and has been established on the road for over five years.
The 54-year-old has helped hundreds of people gain their licence through his Carl Muggleton Driving School.
He’s still heavily involved in football on the side though and takes time to assist young goalkeepers with the Northern Ireland Under-21 team too.
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Muggleton played for 14 clubs throughout his 22-year career and had a short spell with the Hoops when he joined the club in January 1994.
He spent the remainder of the 1993/94 season at Celtic and made 12 top-flight appearances in that time.
The former England youth international was signed by manager Lou Macari from Leicester and left Glasgow in the summer after Tommy Burns took over as gaffer in March.
It was a season to forget for the Celts as they ended the campaign with no trophies and finished 4th in the league behind Rangers, Aberdeen and Motherwell.
But despite failing for success in Scotland, Muggleton came close to a trophy two years earlier as he played for Leicester in their Second Division play-off final and saved a penalty at Wembley.
He was on the losing side though.
Muggleton is enjoying his new life after hanging up the gloves but recently told the Athletic about some of the scary moments he’s endured in the car with learners.
Speaking in 2019, the former stopper recalled: “We nearly took out a bus stop once.
“I grabbed the steering wheel just in time, but the more experience you have you can see what is coming up and try to avoid it.
“I was in the last year of my career, aged 39. My mate’s daughter was 17 and he didn’t want to take her out for lessons, so I said I’d help.
“I decided to do a course and qualify, and it has been good for me. I can be flexible and do more when I am out of work as a coach.
“It is so rewarding, because you are giving youngsters a chance in life and an opportunity for freedom to get out and about, and they get asked when applying for jobs if they have a driving licence.
“I was asked to give (Leicester player) Daniel Amartey some lessons to get used to driving here, booster lessons, but it didn’t work out because he wanted to drive an automatic, and I taught Tigers (Leicester’s pro rugby side) player Joe Heyes, who plays for England Under-21s.
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“I know his dad, Darren Heyes, because he used to play keeper for Nottingham Forest.”

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HIBS have announced the devastating news that owner and chairman Ron Gordon has died at the age of 68.Gordon, the Easter Road club’s majority shareholder, had been undergoing treatment for cancer.
Hibs owner Ron Gordon has passed awayCredit: Andrew Barr – The Sun Glasgow
Hibs fans unfurled a banner in support of Gordon after he revealed his battle with cancerCredit: Andrew Barr
It was just earlier this month that Gordon announced to fans in an open letter that he had been battling the illness.
Gordon, who was based in America, had addressed supporters having been unable to attend a match in Edinburgh for a while.
He had said: “Some of you may have noticed that I have not been at Easter Road in some time.
“For most of this past year I have been receiving treatment for cancer. 

“It has been a difficult time for me and the family, but I’m blessed to have their love and support as we navigate through the challenge. 
“I imagine many of you will have gone through similar times in your own families. 
“We all stick together to get through these difficult times.”
Gordon had hoped to be able to return to Easter Road again once his treatment allowed him to do so.
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But sadly, Hibs confirmed the sad news that he had passed away this morning.
Chief executive Ben Kensell said: “Everyone at the club is deeply saddened at the news. Our thoughts are with Ron’s wife Kit, his sons Ian and Colin, and the rest of the Gordon family. Ron may have been our chairman and owner, but he was first and foremost a devoted family man with a close and loving family.
“We would ask that at this difficult time, the family’s privacy is respected as they mourn their loss.”
Gordon took control of Hibs back in the summer of 2019.
Born in Peru, he was a tycoon in the US media industry and he was proud of his Scottish heritage.
Hibs’ statement says that the Gordon family are “determined” to see through his vision for the club.
Tributes have been pouring in since the news was confirmed.
SPFL Chief Executive Neil Doncaster said: “Everyone at the SPFL is shocked at this devastating news. Ron was one of the most decent, hard-working, straightforward and enthusiastic figures in our game.“It was clear that Hibs very quickly became far, far more than a business venture for Ron – his obvious pride in being its custodian and his unstinting dedication to the club were the clearest evidence of how much he loved being involved in Hibernian FC.“In only a few years, he benefitted Scottish football more widely as he gave selflessly of his time and his very considerable array of talents. On a personal level, the superb work he did to help drive forward the SPFL Strategy Review was of enormous benefit.“He will be very sadly missed across the entire game.”
Other clubs also passed on their condolences, with a host of Premiership rivals sending a message.
Edinburgh rivals Hearts posted: “The thoughts of everyone at Heart of Midlothian are with Ron’s family, friends and colleagues across the city at this desperately sad time.”
Celtic paid tribute, saying: “Everyone at Celtic Football Club would like to share our sincere condolences. The thoughts and prayers of everyone at the Club are with Ron’s family, friends and everyone at Hibernian FC at this extremely sad time. RIP, Ron.”
Rangers said: “Rangers Football Club is deeply saddened to hear the news of the untimely death of Hibernian Executive Chairman, Ronald J Gordon. We offer our deepest condolences to Ronald’s family, loved-ones and all at Hibernian FC this difficult time.”
Aberdeen chairman Dave Cormack offered a heartfelt tribute, saying: “Devastated to hear of Ron Gordon’s passing. Ron cared about our game. His drive, creativity & personal investment to make the Scottish game better was laudable. His enthusiasm was infectious. One of the good guys. Taken too early. I’ll miss you my friend… RIP”
St Mirren replied: “The thoughts of all at St Mirren are with Ron’s loved ones at this difficult time. Rest in peace, Ron.”
Hibs fans, too, reacted in shock to the sad news with an outpouring of tributes for the chairman.
One said: “RIP Ron, an absolute gentleman.”
Another said: “Just awful. Thoughts with family, staff and supporters.”
A third added: “Really sad news, thoughts to out to Ron’s family and a massive thank you for everything you’ve done in the best interests of Hibernian. Once a Hibee, always a Hibee.”
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Another Hibs fan said: “Deeply saddened by the news of Ron’s passing. Thoughts are with all his family and friends at a difficult time. Rest easy Ron – thank you.”
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PARIS SAINT-GERMAIN are said to be considering naming Steven Gerrard as their next manager.The former Rangers boss has been linked with a remarkable switch to the Qatari backed French champions just months after being sacked by Aston Villa.
Steven Gerrard could make a sensational move to Paris Saint-GermainCredit: PA
The Liverpool legend won the Scottish Premiership as Rangers manager in 2021Credit: Getty Images – Getty
Gerrard was relieved of his duties after Villa won just two of their opening twelve games in the Premier League this season.
The Liverpool icon had enjoyed a successful start to life after replacing Dean Smith in late 2021.
But he would ultimately face the sack less than a year after taking charge with his side looking in danger of relegation to the Championship.
PSG currently sit five points clear at the top of Ligue 1 but are said to be growing frustrated with head coach Christophe Galtier.

The Frenchman signed a two-year-deal when he arrived from Nice in the summer – where he left after securing European football in his first year.
But with the Parisians knocked out their domestic cup by bitter rivals Marseille, and behind in their Champions League bout with Bayern going into the second-leg, the club hierarchy are reported to be seriously considering making a change.
According to the Scottish Daily Express, ex-Ibrox boss Gerrard has been discussed by club chiefs as a potential target should they move on from Galtier.
They say Paris see him as ‘a major high profile figure who could enhance them next season’ as they look to finally win their much desired Champions League title.
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Another name to be floated is recently sacked former Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel, who himself was fired form the position in 2020.
Gerrard, along with Gary McAllister and current Gers manager Michael Beale, left Glasgow in November 2021 to take up the role at Villa Park.
He won the Premiership title in 2020/21 without losing a single league game with his side earning 102 points and conceding just 13 goals all season.

Meanwhile, Charlie Nicholas has claimed Michael Beale will have to be a ‘lucky man’ if Rangers are to beat Celtic in Sunday’s Viaplay Cup Final.
The Ibrox side face a mouthwatering Old Firm at Hampden this weekend with the first silverware of the Scottish season up for grabs.

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MICHAEL BEALE last night rounded on Chris Sutton and “COMEDY ACT” pundits he claims take Scottish football into the gutter.The Rangers boss received huge praise for his sportsmanship in allowing Partick Thistle to score into an open goal at Ibrox last weekend.
Rangers manager Michael Beale was criticised by Chelsea flop Chris SuttonCredit: Willie Vass
Michael Beale called Chris Sutton a “comedy act” and Chelsea’s “worst ever player”Credit: Willie Vass
But Sutton questioned whether Beale would have made the same gesture had it been against Celtic.
And the Gers boss who hit out: “Growing up, I was a fan of Chelsea.
“So there is one pundit around here who is the worst ever player to play for Chelsea. That is why I won’t mention his name – because I try to forget him.”
Malik Tillman sparked the flashpoint when he scored for Gers after the Jags had kicked the ball out of play for him to receive treatment.
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It was an honest mistake from the midfielder which was quickly rectified by Beale.
But he has been left bemused by those who question whether he would have done the same in an Old Firm clash.
He added: “Listen, there are pundits that are comedy acts. There are ex-players who are comedy acts.
“I don’t even want to answer that question because they are comedy acts and they are there to create intrigue.
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“They don’t speak about the betterment of the game, they don’t help our game at all.
“All they do is bring it back down to the gutter. There are a lot of other good things we can speak about in our game at the moment, at other clubs as much as in my club.
“There are people out there creating intrigue for intrigue reasons and those people, in my opinion, we need to mute them and quickly.” More

ALLY McCOIST is considered one of the best football pundits and commentators in the UK. The Rangers hero is loved across Scotland and England for his hilarious and down-to-earth personality while on-air.
McCoist was joined by Clive Tyledesley for last night’s match
Man City came out on top at the EmiratesCredit: AP
Even many Celtic supporters have confessed their admiration for the former Rangers hitman, who is the Ibrox club’s all-time top goalscorer.
He’s one of the busiest pundits in the land with him being a regular on TalkSPORT with pals Alan Brazil and Laura Woods most mornings.
McCoist isn’t short of games to cover too as he’s a regular on ITV, BT Sport, Sky Sports and Viaplay.
But last night he was on Amazon Prime duties for the huge Premier League clash between Arsenal and Manchester City.

Pep Guardiola’s men came out on top to win 3-1 thanks to goals from Kevin De Bruyne, Jack Grealish, Erling Haaland.
The win for City has blown the Premier League title race wide open as they leapfrogged Mikel Arteta’s Gunners with three points at the Emirates.
The two sides are now level on points but City are ahead on goal-difference and Arsenal have a game in hand.
And fans watching the match reckon it wasn’t the result that McCoist wanted as they believe the Rangers legend was showing bias towards Arteta’s men.
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They took to Twitter to voice their fury at the man on co-comms duties.
Somebody tweeted: “Ally McCoist was practically willing Arsenal to beat City. He wasn’t even trying to hide it!”
Another replied: “I still think Ally McCoist is the best co commentator but tonight for the first time ever I didn’t feel he was neutral.”
One fan claimed: “Ally McCoist had is Arsenal underpants on tonight. Commentary was so bias!”
Another watching the match said: “Ally McCoist’s commentary was shocking towards City. Hardly has a good word to say about their achievements.”
One person slammed: “Ally McCoist is the worst football commentator. Very biased and goes on with his rubbish options for 10 mins after it happens. Sounds like he’s at a funeral every time he has to talk about us.”
While another commented: “Ally McCoist is fuming the little secret arsenal fan.. been waffling the whole game..”
Not everyone had the same views though and many still hailed the Rangers legend for his work on-air.
One fan said: “Ally McCoist is rapidly achieving “national treasure” status. So much fun to listen to.”
Another replied: “Ally McCoist top tier commentator.”
Somebody else claimed: “Ally McCoist is by far and away the best Co comms in football.”
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While another insisted: “Ally McCoist should be on more games commentating, he’s superb.”

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ANGE POSTECOGLOU has been tipped to make a sensational move to the Serie A to take over as manager at Juventus or AC Milan. Hoops legend Charlie Nicholas believes that should be the next stop for the former Socceroos boss when he eventually leaves Parkhead.
Nicholas admits Postecoglou will be on his way out of Glasgow soonCredit: Kenny Ramsay
Postecoglou has been linked with several Premier League clubs this season with Everton, Wolves and Brighton all said to be keeping tabs on him when they were on the hunt for a new boss.
Leeds United are the latest team that have shown an interest after they sacked American Jesse Marsch.
But Nicholas doesn’t believe any of the clubs mentioned are big enough to convince Postecoglou to leave Celtic.
He can’t see the gaffer staying at the club any longer than three seasons.

But when Postecoglou does leave, he will be able to hand pick his next job, according to the former Scotland and Celtic striker.
Writing in his Daily Express column, he said: “When Ange Postecoglou leaves Celtic, he will be able to hand pick his next job. He will be in a position to go to a club that is absolutely right for him. I am in no doubt about that. Leeds United have been linked with the Aussie, while Southampton are also looking for a new manager.
“A lot of the teams who have been connected to Postecoglou are battling to stay in the Premier League. They would still have more financial pull than Celtic but I don’t think any of them would be big enough to convince Postecoglou to even engage in a conversation.
“I’m sure there are approaches for him all the time. Will there come a time when he gets frustrated with things in Glasgow? Possibly But I don’t think Postecoglou has a huge ego. I also doubt if money has ever been the main motivating factor for him.
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“He seems to be the type of manager who likes to come in and build things up. He wants to forge relationships and work with people he feels are on the same wavelength as him.
“There will come a time when a project or an approach sufficiently floats his boat to tempt him away from Celtic. I said in this column last week that Liverpool could be an interesting one if Jurgen Klopp decides it’s time for a change. That job would be hard to turn down, especially as there is an emotional pull with Postecoglou having supported the Reds growing up.
“People are mentioning potential opportunities in England, but clubs in mainland Europe will have taken note of the job Postecoglou is doing. Italian giants Juventus and AC Milan need sorting out, while a few Bundesliga clubs must be looking at the Australian and admiring his work at Celtic.
“There will be chairmen thinking they could do something similar with their clubs over a three-year period. I don’t see Postecoglou being at any club for much longer than three years.
“Given the way his teams play, what he demands and turnover of players he wants, there’s always going to be a breakdown somewhere. It’s just the way he works. It is also the harsh reality that if he continues to do well then he will move on.
“Postecoglou is not going to stay at Celtic for the long term. Every Hoops supporter knows that.”

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