Celtic players Stephane Mahe and Vidar Riseth have offered their apologies for their behaviour in the Old Firm game on Sunday. Both men were sent off by referee Hugh Dallas during the 3-0 home defeat by Rangers which handed Dick Advocaat's men their 10th Premier League title in 11 years. Mahe's dismissal provoked the stormy scenes which led to Dallas being struck by a coin, the French player initially refusing to leave the field. Both men have been fined heavily for their actions, although the club have refused to reveal the exact punishment.

Celtic also pruned their squad yesterday by releasing 11 players whose contracts expire in the summer. Ger Crossley (19), who has played a central role in Brian Kerr's underage teams over the last few years, is among those released.

Tottenham have beaten off the challenge of Aston Villa to sign Israeli international full back Naguan Garayeb for £1 million, subject to a medical and work permit. The 25-year-old left back is expected to join up with his new team-mates for pre-season training.

English Premiership referees could soon be driven to and from games in `safe' cars to protect them from violent fans. Referees' officer Philip Don confirmed that plans are being finalised to transport the referee and his assistants plus the fourth official from a hotel to the ground and back again.

The fear at present is that referees are sitting targets for vengeful supporters when they drive to and from grounds in their own cars.

Ian Wright could miss the start of next season through suspension after he was last night charged with misconduct by the FA for an incident following his sending-off on Saturday. Wright will face a disciplinary hearing following damage allegedly caused by him to the referee's dressing-room at Upton Park.

Mikkel Beck scored his first goal for Derby to secure the win over Leicester last night. Dean Sturridge's first-half goal was cancelled out by Frank Sinclair.