Birmingham City ‘in talks with Scottish manager’ in bid to replace former Celtic boss and could face Rangers first.

BIRMINGHAM CITY could go Scottish in their bid to replace former Celtic boss Tony Mowbray, according to a report.

Former Hoops star and the boss left the Midlands side this week to focus on his recovery from “significant and unexpected surgery”.

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And that has left a vacancy at Birmingham City – who are thought to face Rangers in a pre-season friendly to honor the transfer of Trevor Francis this summer.

And now the Telegraph is reporting that the ex Hamilton Accies, Preston, Norwich, Stoke City and Sunderland boss Neil could be the man to take charge.

Neil, who was also linked to the vacancy at Hibshe is one of the most successful Scottish managers in service.

Still only 42, he’s off the charts flight management since being sacked by Stoke in December with the Potteries languishing in the lower reaches of the Championship.

Birmingham are desperate to bounce back after being relegated League One at the end of the season and promotion specialist Neil could fit the bill invoice.

Neither City nor Gers have officially confirmed preseason friendly and the date of the match has yet to be confirmed – but there is speculation that it could take place on Wednesday 24 July.

The former Blues boss – and Rangers manager candidate – Gary Rowett is one of the other candidates linked with the role – for the third time.

Former Hull City boss Steve Bruce is another name that has been linked with post.

This is exactly the first anniversary of death of Francis – a hero of both clubs.

Birmingham City CEO Garry Cook also revealed that the Blues plan to unveil a statue in his honour.

Gers goalkeeper Jack Butland is also a veteran of both clubs, having started his senior career in the Midlands with City.

RangersPreseason plans are an open book outside of that glamor versus clash Man Utd.

The Old Trafford outfit will ‘host’ the Ibrox men at Scottish Gas Murrayfield, Edinburgh on Saturday 20 July.

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