Scottish Football Transfer News: Jack Ross Aberdeen frontrunner, Celtic boss' frustrations, Motherwell star 'take him out' claims, Scott Brown's Pittodrie role

It was a big weekend of Scottish Cup action with seven of the eight fifth round ties concluded, the final one taking place tonight as Dundee travel to Peterhead.

Here is all the latest news and speculation from around the SPFL and Scottish football:

Well star's Dons claims

Motherwell forward Kevin van Veen has claimed Aberdeen players were “instructed” to take him out during the Scottish Cup tie. The Dutchman scored the equaliser in the 2-1 win at Fir Park and was booked for celebrating in the face of Declan Gallagher. He said: “After 10-15 seconds they started punching me in the ribs. I said: ‘I will get you back – I’ll score.’” (The Scotsman)

Ross the frontrunner

Jack Ross is the frontrunner to become the next Aberdeen boss. The Dons parted company with Stephen Glass on Sunday following their Scottish Cup exit. Ross is currently available after being replaced by Shaun Maloney at Hibs. He is not the only manager reportedly keen on the position with St Mirren boss Jim Goodwin also open to a move north after a good job with the Buddies. (Daily Record)

Maloney praises team

Shaun Maloney was delighted with the reaction shown by his Hibs players as they defeated Arbroath 3-1 in the Scottish Cup. The Capital side came from behind to win at Gayfield when many were expecting the side to slip up. He said: “I learn about them in every game and I think what they showed today was a real desire not to be beat. When you have a big setback after six minutes against a team from a division below...they showed a really strong mentality to come back from it.” (Various)

Commons hits out at Cormack

Former Celtic star Kris Commons has hit out at Aberdeen chairman Dave Cormack for failing to get his own house in order. The Dons sacked manager