Juninho drops hint to Keegan

Juninho has no intention of leaving Celtic to return to South America but would welcome a move back to the Premiership if his career continues to stall in Scotland, his agent said yesterday. Manchester City would be Juninho's club of choice.

Juninho has no intention of leaving Celtic to return to South America but would welcome a move back to the Premiership if his career continues to stall in Scotland, his agent said yesterday. Manchester City would be Juninho's club of choice.

"I know there is interest from a Brazilian club but Juninho doesn't want to go there," Brian Hassell said. "He is a fan of Kevin Keegan's style of play. [Manchester City] would not be a bad move for him."

The 31-year-old Brazilian playmaker has been unhappy at the limited opportunities provided by Martin O'Neill since his August move from Middlesbrough to Celtic Park.

"The manager has had a lot of chances to put me in his team but it hasn't happened," he said. "If I have no part in his plans, there is no point in remaining here."

Rangers have moved a step closer to signing Stéphane Henchoz from Liverpool after making an improved offer for the player.

The Switzerland international was originally concerned about signing a short-term deal at Ibrox.

Henchoz's agent Jorg Vonmatt believes that the new offer is more "straightforward" for his client.

Vonmatt said: "Rangers have changed the terms and it is now an offer that can be discussed.

"Stéphane is a lot happier with the new deal and the length of the contract is not a problem now. It's now a straightforward decision and he must consider where he next wants to play. He has a number of other offers to consider."

The 30-year-old has fallen out of favour at Anfield under Rafael Benitez.