The Courier & Advertiser (Fife Edition)
Warburton amused by Van Persie rumour
Mark Warburton has laughed off reports linking Rangers with Robin van Persie.
Claims the Ibrox club were ready to make a move for the former Arsenal and Manchester United star spread like wildfire across social media on Wednesday night.
Bookmakers Ladbrokes even suspended betting on the Dutchman making a switch to Glasgow after taking a “flurry of bets”.
But the whole episode left Warburton perplexed as he insisted he had never even made an inquiry about the 32-year-old, with the Gers boss admitting he was both “bemused and amused” by the misleading gossip.
“I wonder what the first question will be,” the Englishman said as he sat down ahead of his weekly press conference.
“I have no idea where the rumour has emanated from. I woke up to a barrage of texts and missed calls, with apparently the deal done.
“Everybody knew about it apart from the people at Rangers Football Club.
“Out of our pay league I think is a fair comment.
“He’s an unbelievably talented player but absolutely nothing in it whatsoever. I’m bemused to hear some of the stories, including betting being suspended.
“There is no truth in the story whatsoever.”
The Van Persie claims come just days after another internet fabrication suggested the Light Blues were in talks with former Celtic goal machine Henrik Larsson’s son Jordan.
Warburton said: “These stories do entertain me. I don’t know where these things come from. I’m sure someone is laughing somewhere.”
Warburton does have more realistic targets, but insists he will not be rushed.
“We’re looking for another attacking option and another defending option,” he said.
“But we’re in no panic for it. The squad is in good shape and the fitness levels are good.
“If we can find the one or two who will add value, then we will move.”
Warburton has been a critic of the new format for the Betfred Cup, insisting the round-robin phase against lower-league opposition has not been the ideal preparation for his side ahead of the new campaign.
Having sailed through Group F into the knockout rounds, he hopes his side will be pushed more when they take on English Premier League new boys Burnley at Ibrox in tomorrow’s friendly clash.