FOOTBALL: SCOTTISH FOOTBALL

OLD FIRM players will all be accompanied by mascots wearing the opposition's colours when they walk out for the Scottish Cup final at Hampden Park on May 29.

The revolutionary concept is one of four measures that will be implemented by the Scottish Football Association following its inquiry into the violence at the explosive match between Celtic and Rangers on 2 May.

A private meeting between the referee, Hugh Dallas, and the managers, captains and senior players of both clubs will also be held in advance of the final, emphasising the importance of the occasion.

Dundee's defender Dariusz Adamczuk insists his move to Celtic did not collapse because of a failed medical. The Polish international's move to Parkhead fell through earlier this week, amid claims that unforeseen physical problems caused the deal to be scrapped.

But Adamczuk, worried the rumours might ruin his chances of any transfer away from Dens Park, has claimed the only problem with the Celtic option was the contract length.

"I've heard reports that I failed Celtic's medical, but that is not true," he said.

The Old Firm's European plans have been thrown into chaos after Australia confirmed they will play two high-profile friendlies against Manchester United in July.

It means Celtic's Mark Viduka and the Rangers pair of Tony Vidmar and Craig Moore will be required for the double-header, the second in Melbourne on 19 July, just nine days before Rangers' Champions' League qualifier.

Rangers' coach Dick Advocaat is already without the American Claudio Reyna for that. The midfielder also misses the start of the Scottish Premier League on 31 July because of international commitments. Celtic's Uefa Cup campaign begins on 10 August, but coach Jozef Venglos will be frustrated at losing a key player at a vital pre-season period.