Latapy Up for the Cup
(Stuart Crowther)

AS THE TRANSFER DEADLINE in Scotland comes to a close today, and no news of a bid from Celtic for Russell Latapy transpires, Hibs fans will be looking for the T&T Skipper to now settle down and concentrate on leaving Easter Road with a big bang - possibly at the Scottish Cup final on may 26th, assuming Livingston are overcome next month!

Weeks of speculation appear to have come to nothing - and to be fair to Hibernian, that is exactly what they have been saying officially would happen!  Latapy remains a Hibs player until the end of the season, and it is now a matter between the manager and player to sort out any lingering differences in opinion over 'attitude', and get back to playing football again.

Russell Latapy - might be a few more goals for Hibs yet (sns)

"There has been no approach for Russell from Celtic," McLeish said yesterday, adding: "What I have to do now is sit down with Russell and discuss his mental state.  If he has not been able to get a pre-contract agreement then we have to be able to be sure that the wee fella can give everything he has.  It is possible that, given the stories you read, there is strong interest from Celtic and maybe also Rangers.  If he sees out the rest of the season then he can go to the Old Firm or anywhere else at the end of the season.

"But I have to be sure that he wants to go on and win the Cup and a place in Europe, and we will talk after training on Saturday.  From speaking to me a few weeks ago, the impression he gave me was that he would want to do all he could to go out of here on a high.  But I need full commitment as manager of this football club from every player."  McLeish revealed yesterday that club skipper Franck Sauzee had only just recommenced full training on Friday, and so should be considered doubtful for the visit to St Johnstone.  The home side meanwhile will be without Gary Bollan, who signed for Hearts just before the deadline in a £20,000 deal.