SPL Rangers players Steven Naismith and Steven Whittaker have "objected to the transfer of their contracts to the newco club," according to the Scotland DAILY RECORD. The duo issued statements through their lawyers claiming that "they are now free agents." The Rangers claim that the "transfer of all player contracts have already taken place." The club warned that "any players disputing the move could face legal action" in the wake of reported objections from players Rhys McCabe and Sone Aluko. Lawyers acting for Scotland internationals Naismith and Whittaker said that their clients "would not report for training with Rangers and are seeking new clubs." Naismith, who describes himself as a "lifelong Rangers fan," said, "It has been an extremely difficult decision to make, but I believe it is the right decision." (DAILY RECORD, 6/24). Meanwhile, the SCOTSMAN reported that Rangers Manager Ally McCoist has called on players to be “up front and honest” about their intentions after reports that many will not transfer to owner Charles Green’s newco club. McCoist, however, did say it was “understandable” if players were looking elsewhere since the new Rangers do not know which league they will play in next season. But he called on them "to be open about it." McCoist: “I don’t want Rangers fans to be reading over the next few days how devastated players are about having to go. The fans deserve better than that. They are not daft. I already know there are agents touting my players all over the United Kingdom, so let’s be brutally honest" (SCOTSMAN, 6/24).
